Now that the 2025 NFL season has concluded, the Carolina Panthers are evaluating their roster in preparation for the upcoming offseason. As part of this review, attention is on the running back position and how it fits into head coach Dave Canales’ strategy.
Canales emphasizes a run-focused offense. “Good things happen when you run the ball; you run the ball when good things happen,” he said. “It works both ways, and it’s a part of who we are.” This approach remains central to the team’s philosophy.
Chuba Hubbard had a standout year in 2024 with 1,195 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, leading to an extension that keeps him under contract through 2028. The Panthers further committed to their ground game by signing Rico Dowdle in free agency after his own 1,000-yard season.
The plan was for Hubbard and Dowdle to share carries throughout the year. However, after Hubbard suffered a calf injury in Week 4 and missed two games, Dowdle stepped up as lead back from Weeks 5-9. During that stretch, Dowdle rushed for 652 yards on 103 attempts with three touchdowns—highlighted by a career-best performance against Miami (206 yards) followed by another strong outing versus Dallas (183 yards). He finished the season with his second consecutive campaign over 1,000 rushing yards.
Upon returning from injury, Hubbard continued contributing but saw fewer touches as Dowdle remained heavily involved. In total, Hubbard added 734 combined scrimmage yards after his return.
Looking ahead to next season, Dowdle’s future with the team is uncertain as he enters free agency. He voiced concerns about his playoff workload: “Hubbard had 13 carries for 46 yards (3.5 per carry) in the wild card game against the Rams, while Dowdle got five carries for 9 yards (1.8 per).” At least part of this was due to limited team carries overall.
General manager Dan Morgan indicated that adding another running back—either through free agency or the draft—is likely alongside Hubbard and former second-round pick Jonathon Brooks. Brooks has recovered from multiple ACL injuries but has seen limited action so far in his career.
The Panthers’ current roster includes Chuba Hubbard (contracted through 2028), Trevor Etienne (2028), Jonathan Brooks (2027), Montrell Johnson (2026), and Tre Tyus (2026). Rico Dowdle is set to become an unrestricted free agent.
The Panthers have established themselves as regular playoff contenders since joining the NFL in 1995 and playing home games in downtown Charlotte (official website). They focus on building a championship culture while engaging fans across North and South Carolina (official website).
Further changes at running back are expected as preparations continue for next season.