Sources: Panthers RB Jonathon Brooks set for surgery, put on IR

Carolina Panthers running back Jonathon Brooks is expected to undergo core muscle surgery Wednesday and will be sidelined for at least six weeks, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

The Panthers placed Brooks on injured reserve Wednesday.

The Panthers brought in former Chargers and Commanders running back Austin Ekeler for a workout on Wednesday but won't be signing him immediately, a source told ESPN.

Brooks left Sunday's win over the Atlanta Falcons in the fourth quarter with what was described as a groin injury. The third-year running back walked to the tunnel with a towel over his head with three members of the Panthers' staff. He was later seen favoring the injury as he slowly limped, on his own power, to the locker room following the game.

Brooks, a second-round pick in 2024, returned this season from back-to-back ACL surgeries. He missed the bulk of his rookie season while recovering from the first surgery on his right knee, an injury that occurred during his final year at Texas. After playing in just three games as a rookie, he retore his right ACL in December 2024 and was forced to undergo another procedure, which sidelined him for the entire 2025 season.

He took part in training camp and the preseason this summer for the first time in his NFL career. He sustained a groin injury leading up to Week 1 but was able to play against the Chicago Bears in the season opener.

In two games this season, Brooks produced 30 rushing yards on nine carries and 43 receiving yards on two catches.

With Brooks sidelined for at least six weeks, the best-case scenario might mean he misses only five games, as the Panthers have an early bye in Week 5.

The Panthers have leaned heavily on veteran Chuba Hubbard as the starting running back this season. Hubbard has rushed for 102 yards and a touchdown and caught five passes for 49 yards and two touchdowns. He will continue to carry the load in the backfield with veteran AJ Dillon serving as a change-of-pace option.

Coach Dave Canales said Anthony Tyus III, who has been on the practice squad for the past two seasons, will be elevated to the game-day roster. He was featured heavily throughout the preseason.

Ahmani Marshall, a second-year running back, is also on the practice squad.