As the college football season unfolds, attention is turning towards the upcoming NFL Draft, where the Carolina Panthers are poised to address key needs, including the running back position. With an eye towards the second or third round, here are five standout running back prospects who could bolster the Panthers’ offense alongside Chuba Hubbard.
1. Jonathan Brooks, Texas
- 2023 Stats: In the 2023 season, Jonathan Brooks proved to be a force in the Longhorns’ backfield, rushing for 1,139 yards and 10 touchdowns. He displayed impressive versatility, adding 25 receptions for 286 yards.
- Measurements: Brooks stands at 6’0″ and weighs 207 pounds.
- Fit with Panthers: Brooks brings a powerful running style combined with good hands out of the backfield. He could provide a reliable complement to Hubbard, adding a physical presence to Carolina’s rushing attack.
2. Blake Corum, Michigan
- 2023 Stats: Corum had a standout season for the Wolverines, rushing for 1,245 yards and 27 touchdowns. He showcased explosive speed and agility, adding 16 receptions for 117 yards.
- Measurements: Corum is 5’8″ and weighs 213 pounds.
- Fit with Panthers: Corum’s ability to break big plays could add an exciting dimension to the Panthers’ offense. His elusiveness and receiving skills make him a potential dual-threat option alongside Hubbard.
3. Jaylen Wright, Tennessee
- 2023 Stats: Wright had a breakout year for the Volunteers, accumulating 1,013 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns. He also contributed in the passing game with 22 receptions for 141 yards.
- Measurements: Wright stands at 5’11” and weighs 210 pounds.
- Fit with Panthers: Wright’s vision and burst make him an intriguing prospect for the Panthers. He could provide valuable depth and a change of pace behind Hubbard, adding a dynamic element to the running back rotation.
4. Trey Benson, Florida State
- 2023 Stats: Benson had a productive season for the Seminoles, rushing for 905 yards and 14 touchdowns. He showcased his receiving ability with 20 receptions for 227 yards.
- Measurements: Benson is 6’1″ and weighs 223 pounds.
- Fit with Panthers: Benson’s combination of size and versatility would give the Panthers another physical runner who can contribute in the passing game. His ability to move the chains could be valuable in short-yardage situations.
5. Bucky Irving, Oregon
- 2023 Stats: Irving had a solid year for the Ducks, totaling 1,180 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns. He demonstrated good hands with 56 receptions for 413 yards.
- Measurements: Irving stands at 5’10” and weighs 195 pounds.
- Fit with Panthers: Irving’s agility and quickness could make him an intriguing option for the Panthers’ offense. His ability to make defenders miss in space could provide a different look alongside Hubbard’s power running.
Why They Would Fit with the Panthers: Each of these running back prospects offers a unique skill set that could complement Chuba Hubbard in the Panthers’ backfield. Hubbard brings power and durability, while these prospects bring speed, versatility, and playmaking ability.
The Panthers, under new Head Coach Dave Canales, could benefit from adding depth and diversity to their running back rotation. A second or third-round selection of one of these prospects would not only provide insurance for Hubbard but also inject new energy into Carolina’s ground game, ensuring a balanced and dynamic offensive attack for the upcoming season.
