Carolina Panthers RB Jonathon Brooks placed on injured reserve

The Carolina Panthers have placed running back Jonathon Brooks on injured reserve after he sustained a core muscle injury. Brooks is scheduled to undergo surgery and is expected to be sidelined for at least six weeks.

This injury adds to a series of setbacks for the second-round pick, who previously missed significant time due to ACL tears. With Brooks out, and Trevor Etienne also on injured reserve, the Panthers' backfield depth is significantly reduced. Chuba Hubbard is expected to take over primary duties, with veteran AJ Dillon serving as the main backup.

In response to the shortage, the Panthers invited veteran free agent Austin Ekeler for a workout. While the workout was reportedly successful, the team has not yet signed him to a contract. The team also signed safety Isaiah Simmons from the practice squad to fill Brooks' spot on the 53-man roster.