Who doesn't love a good camp battle? This time of year, we often see previously unknown players breakout and cement their place on the roster.
This year is no different, as we've already seen several players on the Carolina Panthers show out. However, there are two position battles in particular that are getting very interesting very quick.
Today, we're going to talk about what's going on in the wide receiver and running back rooms, and why fans should be excited.
Wide Receiver Competition Without Chris Brazzell II
Chris Brazzell II was in the running to land the WR3 role as a rookie. Instead, the Tennessee product will have season-ending surgery, leaving Xavier Legette as the favorite to land the WR3 role.
The role won't be simply given to Brazzell, though. Jimmy Horn Jr., John Metchie III, and David Moore, among others, are also in the running. This receiver competition is more interesting now because somebody has to take Brazzell's roster spot.
Does Brazzell's injury open the door for Ja'seem Reed to make it? Or will Metchie or Horn carve out a role? The final two receiver spots likely won't be decided until right before Week 1.
Tetairoa McMillan, Jalen Coker, Legette, and Moore are the receivers we're most confident will make it. Brycen Tremayne has a great shot as well thanks to his special teams work. That's five receivers, which likely means Metchie, Horn, and Reed are fighting for one spot.
Jonathon Brooks vs. Chuba Hubbard
This offseason, the Panthers saw Rico Dowdle leave for the Pittsburgh Steelers. It was then assumed that Chuba Hubbard would become the lead back again after rushing for 1,195 yards in 2024.
However, Jonathon Brooks is making sure people don't forget about him. The Texas product has only played in three games over two seasons due to multiple knee injuries, but he's looked fantastic this offseason. Brooks legitimately looks a future star, and he's received RB1 snaps this summer.
It will be fascinating to watch this competition this summer. Can Brooks actually start over Hubbard immediately? There's no denying Brooks' ceiling, so it wouldn't be surprising. The way Brooks has played at camp has made this a legitimate battle after not many thought it would be.
There's also a battle for the fourth running back spot. There's no guarantee the team will keep a fourth, but veteran A.J. Dillon is the favorite if they do.
