The Carolina Panthers struck gold last offseason with a low-risk, high-reward signing in running back Rico Dowdle. On a one-year, $2.7 million deal with incentives, Dowdle delivered a breakout campaign that not only salvaged Carolina’s backfield in 2025 but also positioned himself for a bigger payday elsewhere this spring. Now, as free agency looms and Dowdle likely heads for a larger role and longer contract, the Panthers find themselves facing a familiar question: what’s next at running back?
The answer might be to run it back - not with Dowdle, but with the same strategy that brought him in. Carolina’s backfield is a mix of potential and uncertainty, and the roster could benefit from another budget-friendly, prove-it deal to stabilize the group.
Chuba Hubbard: Can He Reclaim the Lead Role?
Chuba Hubbard enters the offseason as the most experienced back on the roster, but he’s coming off a frustrating, injury-hampered season. After signing a lucrative extension following a strong 2024 campaign (1,366 scrimmage yards, 11 total touchdowns), Hubbard was slowed by a lingering calf injury in 2025. He eventually lost the starting job to Dowdle and finished the year with just 734 scrimmage yards and four touchdowns.
Still, Hubbard is the most proven option in the room, and if healthy, he’ll likely get the first crack at leading the backfield. But with his 2025 production dipping significantly, Carolina can’t afford to bank solely on a bounce-back.
The Youth Movement: Etienne and Brooks Still Unproven
Behind Hubbard are two intriguing but untested names: Trevor Etienne and Jonathon Brooks.
Etienne, a fourth-round pick last year, saw limited offensive action in his rookie season. He logged just 20 carries for 94 yards while primarily serving as the team’s punt and kick returner. While the coaching staff clearly believes in his long-term upside, his role in the offense remains a mystery heading into Year 2.
Brooks, on the other hand, might have the highest ceiling of the group - but he’s also the biggest question mark. The 2024 second-round pick tore the ACL in his right knee for the second time in just over a year, ending his rookie season after only three games. The team is encouraged by his recovery, but until he proves he can stay on the field, the Panthers would be wise to have a contingency plan in place.
A Crowded Free Agent Market, and a Clear Opportunity
If Dowdle walks - and that appears to be the most likely outcome - Carolina becomes an appealing destination for a second-tier free agent back looking to reset his value. The Panthers have shown they’re willing to reward production over pedigree, as evidenced by Dowdle overtaking Hubbard last season. Head coach Dave Canales typically leans on a two-back system, but he’s not afraid to ride the hot hand.
That kind of open competition could be attractive to a veteran running back who sees a path to touches - and incentives - in Carolina. The 2026 free agent class is deep, headlined by names like Breece Hall, Travis Etienne, Kenneth Walker, Javonte Williams, and Kenny Gainwell. But beyond the top-tier options, there’s a group of capable backs who could thrive in a situation like Carolina’s.
Here are four names who could fit the Dowdle mold - affordable, experienced, and hungry for a bigger role:
Isiah Pacheco
- 2025 stats: 118 carries, 462 rushing yards, 1 TD; 19 catches, 101 receiving yards, 1 TD
Pacheco knows what it takes to contribute on a winning team. A two-time Super Bowl champion with the Chiefs, he’s been a steady presence in Kansas City’s backfield over the past four seasons. While he’s never been a full-time workhorse, his versatility as both a runner and receiver makes him a valuable rotational piece.
He’s shared backfields before - often with more physical, downhill runners - so pairing him with someone like Hubbard could make sense. And given his previous connection with Panthers EVP of Football Operations Brandt Tilis (formerly with the Chiefs), there’s already some familiarity in place. Pacheco wouldn’t need to be the guy - but he could be a key part of the solution.
Jerome Ford
- 2025 stats: 24 carries, 73 rushing yards; 26 catches, 103 receiving yards
Ford’s 2025 season didn’t go as planned. After flashing potential in previous years with the Browns, he fell out of the rotation and saw his role diminish significantly. But that downturn might make him the perfect candidate for a prove-it deal.
Unlike Dowdle, who arrived in Carolina with a bit more momentum, Ford would likely come in as a bargain signing and have to earn his spot in camp. That’s not a bad thing - it’s a low-risk move for the Panthers, and Ford has shown enough in the past to suggest he could contribute if given the opportunity.
Brian Robinson Jr.
- 2025 stats: 90 carries, 400 rushing yards, 2 TDs; 8 catches, 25 receiving yards
Robinson was once the lead back in Washington, but his role shifted after a midseason trade to San Francisco, where he backed up Christian McCaffrey. Despite limited touches, Robinson made the most of his opportunities and showed he can still be effective in a complementary role.
He’s a physical runner who could bring a power element to Carolina’s backfield. And with the Panthers likely to feature a rotation, Robinson could be a strong fit alongside Hubbard, Etienne, and Brooks. He’s still young and likely looking for a spot where he can compete for meaningful reps - Carolina offers just that.
Rachaad White
- 2025 stats: 132 carries, 572 rushing yards, 4 TDs; 40 catches, 218 receiving yards
Here’s a name with built-in familiarity. White played under Canales in Tampa Bay back in 2022, and while that season wasn’t his most efficient (3.6 yards per carry), he still posted career highs in rushing yards (990) and touchdowns (6) with Canales calling plays.
He’s a capable pass catcher and has shown he can handle a decent workload. With 25 total touchdowns over four seasons, White brings a nose for the end zone and a solid all-around skill set. He wouldn’t necessarily threaten the chemistry of the current group, but he’d push for playing time - and that’s exactly what Carolina wants.
Bottom Line: Stick With What Works
The Panthers’ backfield isn’t barren, but it’s far from settled. Hubbard is looking to bounce back.
Etienne and Brooks are still developing. And if Dowdle departs, there’s a clear opening for a veteran to step in and make an impact.
Carolina doesn’t need to break the bank to find that guy. The 2025 Dowdle deal was a blueprint - a short-term contract with incentive upside that created opportunity and rewarded production. With a deep free agent class and a coaching staff willing to let players earn their roles, the Panthers are once again positioned to find value in the running back market.
They just need to choose the right back to bet on.