Jonathan Brooks has waited patiently for his moment, and now it’s here. The Carolina Panthers rookie running back is set to make his NFL debut, and his enthusiasm is infectious. “I’m excited, just to be able to get back on the field and play the game that I love,” Brooks shared. “It’s truly a blessing just to be able to get back out there and be 100%.”
Trusting the Process
Brooks’ journey to this point hasn’t been without its challenges. Coming off an ACL injury, the coaching staff chose to ease him back into action, even holding him out of the Panthers’ trip to Munich. While he admitted his competitive spirit made it hard to sit out, Brooks expressed complete trust in the team’s decision-making. “I trust the coaches. They’ve been coaching for a long time, so I believe what they say. It was probably the best decision for me.”
A Team-First Mentality
When asked about preparing to face a Super Bowl-caliber opponent in his first game, Brooks showed maturity and focus. “We treat every week the same. Just go out there and play our kind of football,” he explained, emphasizing the importance of staying true to the team’s identity. Brooks also praised teammate Chuba Hubbard’s work ethic, calling his success “deserving” and noting the leadership he brings to the locker room.
Ready to Shine
Brooks has spent months rehabbing and refining his game, and he’s feeling stronger than ever. “The more time you have, the better you feel,” he said. With a mix of gratitude and determination, Brooks looks forward to competing alongside familiar faces and showcasing his talents on the NFL stage.
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