Rico Dowdle is moving to the Pittsburgh Steelers, leaving the Carolina Panthers facing changes in their running back lineup. This Rico Dowdle departure impact shifts the backfield dynamics as the Panthers prepare for the upcoming season.
How Carolina Panthers’ Running Back Roles Are Adjusting
During the legal tampering period, the Panthers lost one of their key running backs, Rico Dowdle, to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Dowdle’s move comes after losing his hold on the starting position in Carolina. With his departure, Chuba Hubbard is expected to reclaim the starting role that he originally earned, setting the stage for a new backfield hierarchy as the 2026 season approaches.
Chuba Hubbard Returns to Lead the Panthers’ Backfield
Chuba Hubbard will resume his role as the Panthers’ main running back after signing a four-year, $33.2 million contract in November 2024. Hubbard initially lost his starter spot while sidelined by injury, during which Dowdle stepped up with several impressive games marked by 200-plus scrimmage yards. Despite this, Hubbard is poised to be the primary running back again in 2026, reclaiming the workload for Carolina.
Hubbard’s performance metrics reflect his interrupted playing time rather than his capability; he ranked 42nd in PFSN’s Running Back Impact score with 51.6, hindered mostly by limited appearances once Dowdle emerged. With Dowdle’s departure, Hubbard has the opportunity to prove himself as the team’s leading rusher once more.
Up-and-Coming Talent: Jonathon Brooks’ Potential Role
The Panthers have high hopes for Jonathon Brooks, their second-round pick from the 2024 NFL Draft. Unfortunately, Brooks’ rookie season was derailed by injury, leading to just nine carries for 22 yards across three games. His 2025 season was entirely missed due to another ACL tear, leaving him without official NFL game experience entering the new season.
Brooks was a highly rated prospect when drafted but has yet to make an impact due to repeated injuries. Carolina views him as a potential breakout player who could provide valuable support to Hubbard and become a vital part of the Panthers’ offense as he recovers and gains experience.
Trevor Etienne’s Role Remains Supportive
Trevor Etienne, younger brother of New Orleans Saints running back Travis Etienne, was selected by the Panthers in the fourth round of the 2025 draft. His limited action in the 2025 season resulted in 20 carries totaling 94 yards and three receptions for 13 yards. Heading into 2026, Etienne is expected to maintain a similar backup role and will see more playing time only if either Hubbard or Brooks is sidelined due to injury.
Montrell Johnson Jr. Joins Practice Squad, Eyeing Future Contribution
Montrell Johnson Jr. recently joined the Panthers’ practice squad after stints with the Eagles and Cardinals practice squads. While he is not expected to significantly impact the roster this upcoming season, Johnson’s collegiate career was notable with over 3,000 rushing yards accumulated at Louisiana and Florida. Carolina may view him as a developmental candidate for future seasons.
Implications of the Running Back Shuffle for Carolina
Rico Dowdle’s exit creates a substantial shift in the Panthers’ backfield, elevating Chuba Hubbard back to the top of the depth chart and leaving room for younger players like Jonathon Brooks and Trevor Etienne to carve out their roles. The team’s ability to capitalize on these transitions will be crucial to their offensive success in the 2026 NFL season. Monitoring Brooks’ recovery and Hubbard’s performance under increased workload will be key indicators of how well Carolina adapts to this change.
