Jonathon Brooks, the Carolina Panthers running back, continues to struggle with injuries. Despite making a remarkable comeback from a devastating ACL injury, Jonathon Brooks finds himself facing yet another sideline.
Despite his unwavering determination to establish himself, fate has had different designs for the determined rookie. Yahoo Sports reported that Brooks’ final year in collegiate football did not end as he hoped. In the final season, he suffered a career-threatening injury—an ACL tear. This was especially devastating for Brooks, who was an elite running back at his school and a highly coveted prospect for the first round of draft picks.
Cleveland Clinic says recovering from this type of injury can take six to nine months. Competitive athletes need more time before returning to their sport. This suggests a low probability of him starting for any team during the 2024 season. His previous season stats made him still a valuable pick. Sports Illustrated noted,
“The past season, Brooks rushed for 1,139 yards and 10 touchdowns on 187 carries.”
That did not stop his descent from a top-tier position. It is possible that concerns about his injury led to his draft drop. His selection as the Panthers’ second-round draft pick remains solid evidence of his potential. One can deduce that there was an expectation that he would recuperate quickly enough to contribute to the team.
According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, he was expected to be ready to play by July 1st, as SI noted. Despite those high expectations, he remained on the sidelines until Week 12. Even when he returned to the field with limited playing time,
“He impressed by rushing eight times for 25 yards as a backup to Chuba Hubbard.”
Unfortunately, injuries have plagued this promising running back again and will probably sideline him for the rest of the season.
During the first half of the Panthers vs. Eagles game, Brooks reportedly slipped on the turf and sustained a non-contact injury. The pain seemed severe as he limped off the field.
After a prolonged absence from the field, it’s disheartening to only have a brief window to showcase the skills honed over years of training. This is especially difficult when you were previously at the peak of your abilities and are now confronted with another potential challenge after only three games. Chuba Hubbard will reclaim his role as the primary running back following Brooks’ injury.
What actions can Brooks take now? Brooks must focus on self-reflection, studying plays, and mentally preparing for the next season. When the ‘fat lady sings,’ a popular saying in sports, it means the game is over, and there’s no choice but to accept the outcome. Unfortunately, she has sung her tune for Brooks, halting his 2024 NFL season. That is the end of my rant.
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