South Charlotte Today

The Carolina Panthers have reaffirmed their commitment to a strong running game under the leadership of Dave Canales. This dedication is evident following the recent efforts to bolster their backfield lineup, including extending Chuba Hubbard’s contract, drafting Jonathon Brooks, and signing Rico Dowdle. "It's really just fit. It's continuity," commented Canales, indicating his emphasis on maintaining harmony and consistency among running backs.

During the NFL's annual meeting, Canales underlined his strategy of employing two similarly skilled "war daddies" to ensure steady performance and continuity. Reflecting on his experience from Seattle, he explained, "My philosophy with the running backs is you take the best runner. So, I'm not looking for a style. I'm not looking for a complement."

The Panthers' yield from this approach was seen last season when Hubbard and Dowdle emerged among the top-performing backs in the league, each surpassing 1,000 rushing yards and becoming leading figures in total yardage.

The NFL meeting also addressed several key changes. The ongoing debate on the tush-push was postponed to May. In a new development, the touchback spot was moved to the 35-yard line, aiming to increase return rates. The Panthers were significantly impacted, having received the highest number of kickoffs last season.

The NFL table did not address onside kick rules yet and also set postseason and regular season overtime rules uniformly, further expanding instant replay usage. However, the proposal to eliminate the automatic first down for defensive holding or illegal contact was overturned.

Meanwhile, Canales expressed reluctance in criticizing the effectiveness of the Philadelphia Eagles’ quarterback sneak, endorsing the idea of fair competitive advantage: "The statistics certainly don't say that it's a dangerous play."

Additionally, adjustments in free agency rules now permit limited direct communication with unrestricted free agents during a designated negotiation period. This change influenced the Panthers as they secured agreements with several external free agents.

While intended to ease free agency engagements, Canales suggests the team's long-term goal lies in achieving roster stability, reducing such active participation in future free agency periods.