Panthers linked to AFC West RB in light of latest injury to Jonathon Brooks

Some guys have all the bad luck and don’t leave much for the rest of us. It seems like third-year Carolina Panthers running back Jonathon Brooks might be one of them.

After missing all but 23 snaps in his first two NFL seasons thanks to two ACL tears, Brooks has suffered another injury just two games into the 2026 campaign. Now, he’s dealing with a lingering groin tweak—and may, according to insider Tom Pelissero, be out on a week-to-week basis.

If Brooks misses time, the Panthers could look to replenish their backfield to help out starter Chuba Hubbard. And if that’s the case, Moe Moton at Bleacher Report suggests Los Angeles Chargers Kimani Vidal as a possible trade target.

General manager Dan Morgan could inquire about Kimani Vidal, who dropped to third on the depth chart after the Los Angeles Chargers signed Keaton Mitchell this past offseason. Last season, Vidal excelled in a lead role, racking up a career-high 643 rushing yards and three touchdowns while Omarion Hampton missed time with an ankle injury. The Panthers can pair Chuba Hubbard with Vidal to bolster their 20th-ranked ground attack.

General manager Dan Morgan could inquire about Kimani Vidal, who dropped to third on the depth chart after the Los Angeles Chargers signed Keaton Mitchell this past offseason. Last season, Vidal excelled in a lead role, racking up a career-high 643 rushing yards and three touchdowns while Omarion Hampton missed time with an ankle injury. The Panthers can pair Chuba Hubbard with Vidal to bolster their 20th-ranked ground attack.

For the Chargers’ part, it makes sense—especially if they lose again this week and put themselves in an 0-3 hole. In that case, stockpiling draft capital is probably a good idea over there.

Then again, it’s a bit early for the Panthers to start giving up assets. If Brooks won’t be out for too long and the offense gets Trevor Etienne back after the Week 5 bye, then general manager Dan Morgan may not feel it necessary to part with his valued draft picks.

However, if Hubbard or another running back gets hurt, this idea might be worth revisiting.

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