Panthers reveal Week 1 plans for RBs Chuba Hubbard, Jonathon Brooks

The Carolina Panthers have revealed their plans for the rushing game in Week 1 of the 2026 season, but there are no set starters as head coach Dave Canales emphasized that the team won't have a bell-cow. Starting running back Chuba Hubbard, who has been dealing with a hamstring injury, is expected to be ready for Week 1, according to Canales.

Hubbard hit over 20 miles per hour in a controlled setting recently, but the team wants to ensure he is ready for the physicality of playing with opponents. In his absence, third-year back Jonathon Brooks has served as the No. 1 option, taking eight carries for 23 yards and a touchdown in the last two preseason games. Canales stated that both Hubbard and Brooks would be in the game on third down to protect the other, and whoever starts on base downs would get the majority of the rhythm. The Panthers will open their regular season against the Chicago Bears on September 13.