Panthers RB Jonathon Brooks in good spirits: 'Fully healed'

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Carolina Panthers running back Jonathon Brooks missed out on an opportunity to meet two NFL icons.

Despite noticing Steve Smith Sr. and Chad Ochocinco at the practice fields behind Bank of America Stadium on Tuesday, taking in the Panthers' first padded practice of the summer, Brooks remained "focused."

A third-year running back competing in his first pro training camp, Brooks later lamented not getting a chance to greet two of his childhood heroes. 

"No, I didn't get the chance to interact with them," Brooks said. "I wish I did."

Ochocinco was in town to help promote the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge. Smith, the Panthers' all-time leading receiver, remains a regular visitor. 

Overlooking the opportunity to socialize, Brooks' attention was on Tuesday's practice, which turned testy at times, featuring a few melees. 

"I think that was pretty cool that they were out there, seeing two guys that I've looked up to my whole life and watched growing up," Brooks said. "I didn't get a chance to interact with them. 

"I just wanted to stay focused. I really want to be focused on what I have in front of me this year and just stay focused."

Panthers' Jonathon Brooks thankful for Chuba Hubbard's help

While addressing the media following Tuesday practice, Brooks spoke of his prolonged recovery from back-to-back knee surgeries. With the aid of his fiancée and teammate Chuba Hubbard, Brooks said the recovery journey tested his resolve, but through the trials, he found a new faith and a lifelong partner.

A 2024 second-round draft pick, Brooks first suffered a right knee injury during his senior season in college. His second occurred without contact while attempting to make a cut move as a rookie. He spent all of 2025 rehabbing.

He credited Hubbard for helping mold him into a professional, despite the setbacks.

"To be honest, it sounds cliché to say, but I don't know where I would be (without Hubard)," he said. "Since I first got here, you know, I came in with an injury and he helped me. 

"He took me under his wing and really guided me how to rehab, how to practice, all of that. And then, especially when I got hurt again. He was right there with me. He helped me throughout the whole way.

"He was there when I got baptized and that just goes to say how much we've grown, our brotherhood." 

MORE: With Rico Dowdle gone, Panthers need production from backup RBs

Brooks, who sat out the first three months as a rookie, gained 22 yards on nine rush attempts. He also caught all three of his targets, amassing 23 yards. Two catches resulted in first downs.

Throughout the offseason training program (OTAs) and the first four training camp practices, Brooks continues to display the speed and elusiveness that led general manager Dan Morgan to gamble on drafting an injured running back.

"He looks like the guy I remember," coach Dave Canales said. 

With the Panthers scheduled to compete in the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game on Aug. 6, Brooks remains eager to take that first in-game cut move.

"For me, being back out there, it definitely is a confidence booster to know that I'm fully healed," Brooks said. "I can take hits again and I can be out there with my teammates, doing everything that I need to do to help the team."

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