Chiefs expect to see highly-anticipated debut of Panthers top rookie

Last spring, the Carolina Panthers made an interesting selection on Day 2 of the 2024 NFL Draft with the selection of running back Jonathon Brooks. While no one doubted Brook's high-end talent, he was coming off of an abbreviated season due to an ACL tear late in the year at Texas. Draftniks wondered exactly when Brooks might go given the variables involved, but general manager Dan Morgan made sure Brooks wouldn't slide out of the top 50 prospects taken.

Fast forward to the regular season, and Brooks has yet to make his debut through the first 11 weeks of the season. However, with the Kansas City Chiefs set to make their scheduled visit in Week 12, Brooks looks ready to finally make his debut.

For the Panthers, there's not a lot for fans to be excited about these days with such a miserable record and lack of overall talent in the organization. That said, the potential addition of Brooks to a backfield with Chuba Hubbard already in the fold could be a real bright spot going forward.

We reached out to Dean Jones, site editor of the Panthers blog Cat Crave, to tell us more about Brook's potential, current status, and what to expect on Sunday.

It feels like everyone expects Jonathan Brooks to make his debut on Sunday against the Chiefs. Do you feel that's certain?

It seems to be trending that way. The Panthers have erred on the side of caution with Jonathon Brooks so far. They kept him out of their game in Germany against the Giants, giving him the bye week to recuperate further. It's been all systems go in practice this week, so it would be a shock if Brooks didn't feature in some capacity. Just how big the workload will be considering he's been out for a year is another matter.

Given the careful nature of things and the presence of Chuba Hubbard, what is the expected workload on Sunday?

Chuba Hubbard is the workhorse back and that won't change. Expect to see Jonathon Brooks deployed in obvious passing situations and potentially in pony personnel (two running back sets). Dave Canales said there wouldn't be any restrictions on the rookie, so they'll probably see how he fares early on before adjusting accordingly.

What was the vibe among Panthers fans back in the draft on using a second round pick on Brooks?

A mixture of excitement and confusion. Nobody was doubting Brooks' talent, but some fans felt trading up for an injured running back was a luxury Carolina couldn't afford after giving up the No. 1 pick to the Chicago Bears in the Bryce Young trade. That said, Dan Morgan's first draft class seems to be a major hit overall. He's also found a couple of undrafted gems in Jalen Coker and Demani Richardson.

What's the anticipation here for Panthers fans to see Brooks in action?

It's pretty high. Most are tempering expectations considering he's been out of action for a year. But if he can recapture his form at Texas quickly, fans are excited to see what a legitimate one-two punch at running back could do for this offense and quarterback Bryce Young.