Panthers HC hints offense could run through rookie

The Carolina Panthers finished with the worst record in the league (2-15) last season. 

For Carolina to be more competitive in 2024, quarterback Bryce Young must take his game to another level in his second year after throwing just 11 touchdowns and 10 interceptions as a rookie.

However, head coach Dave Canales recently said the weight of the offense won't solely be on the shoulders of the former No. 1 overall pick. In fact, the offense could be run through rookie running back Jonathon Brooks.

"It all starts with the run game and having (guards) Robert (Hunt) and Damien (Lewis) in there because I love our backfield," Canales said on "The Season with Peter Schrager" podcast. "Adding Jonathan (Brooks), an opportunity came to us with a really talented guy."

The Panthers needed to invest in their offense after averaging the fewest total yards per game (265.3) and points per game (13.9) in the league in 2023.

That's exactly what they did by giving big paydays to Hunt (five-year, $100M) and Lewis (four-year, $53M) and trading up in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft to select Brooks.

Carolina clearly wants to have a run-first mentality under Canales and Brooks could play a large role after rushing for 1,139 yards and 10 touchdowns in his final season at Texas.

However, he must first battle with veteran running backs Chuba Hubbard, Miles Sanders, Raheem Blackshear, Rashaad Penny and Mike Boone for the starting job.

That decision is far from being made, but Canales is excited about what he's seen thus far.

"I'm just excited about the talent," Canales added. "I feel confident that we'll be able to have a successful run game, which, for me, opens everything else up."

The Panthers may opt to take a running back by committee approach, but someone will be the starter. If that is ultimately Brooks, he could be in store for a big rookie year.