Chuba Hubbard, RB (CAR)

Set to reclaim key backfield role

Hubbard approaches training camp in a position to secure the lead role in Carolina's 2026 backfield, Mike Kaye of the Charlotte Observer reports.

With last year's rushing leader Rico Dowdle now with the Steelers, Hubbard -- who looked good this spring -- per Kaye, should have an opportunity to bounce back from a forgettable 2025 campaign in which injuries contributed to him logging just 511 yards (on 134 carries) in 15 regular-season contests after racking up 1,195 rushing yards (on 250 carries) in 2024. Also in the mix for backfield work this season will be Jonathon Brooks -- who is rebounding from back-to-back ACL surgeries -- as well as 2025 fourth-rounder Trevor Etienne, with AJ Dillon, Anthony Tyus and Miles Davis also on hand. Assuming Hubbard can avoid the injury bug, he figures to see steady volume out of the gate this coming season, but if Brooks is able to re-prove his health he could cut into Hubbard's workload down the road.

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Jalen Coker

Jalen Coker

WR CAR

Signs three-year extension

Coker and the Panthers agreed on a three-year, $35 million contract extension with incentives up to $41 million Thursday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Behind Brooks on depth chart?

Etienne appears to be behind Chuba Hubbard and Jonathon Brooks on Carolina's depth chart, competing for a backup role while contributing on special teams, according to Mike Kaye of The Charlotte Observer.

Being eased back in

Brooks didn't participate in team drills during Tuesday's OTA session, Alex Zietlow of the Charlotte Observer reports.

Bryce Young

Bryce Young

QB CAR

Contract option picked up

The Panthers have officially exercised the fifth-year option on Young's rookie contract, Darin Gantt of the team's official site reports.