Carolina Panthers coach Dave Canales remains tight-lipped on his starting running back against the New York Jets, setting the stage for a compelling backfield battle between veteran Chuba Hubbard, returning from injury, and the red-hot Rico Dowdle, whose recent performances have created an unexpected dilemma for the team.
The Carolina Panthers (3-3) are preparing for a crucial road game against the New York Jets, and one of the biggest questions surrounding the team is who will lead the backfield. Head coach Dave Canales has kept his cards close to his chest, refusing to name a starting running back, despite the impressive recent play of Rico Dowdle and the return of established starter Chuba Hubbard from a calf injury.
The Rise of Rico Dowdle: Seizing the Opportunity
With Hubbard sidelined for two games due to a calf injury, Rico Dowdle stepped into the primary role and delivered two career-defining performances. Dowdle amassed an astonishing 389 rushing yards and 473 yards from scrimmage in those two contests. This includes a 206-yard outburst on 23 carries against the Miami Dolphins, followed by 183 yards on 30 carries against his former team, the Dallas Cowboys. These numbers represent a significant breakthrough for a player who found himself splitting carries with Ezekiel Elliott early last season with the Cowboys.
Speaking on his recent success, Canales praised Dowdle’s effort, stating, “I think he’s earned everything that he’s done in the last two weeks. He’s earned the right to help this team, and he will. We’ll find a way to do that. How we do that specifically, I don’t wanna really share those details of it.” This sentiment, reported by Associated Press, highlights the coach’s confidence in Dowdle’s ability to contribute significantly.
Chuba Hubbard’s Return: A Contract and a Comeback
While Dowdle has been making headlines, Chuba Hubbard is poised to return after missing two games. Hubbard has been the Panthers’ starting running back for the past two seasons, securing a substantial $33 million contract after rushing for nearly 1,200 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2024. His proven track record and considerable investment from the team underscore his importance to the offense.
Despite the brewing competition, Hubbard remains focused on the team’s success. He commented, “I mean in all honesty, all my career, all I know is work, work, work. That’s what I pride myself on regardless of the situation that’s going on around me. I control what I control. Obviously the biggest thing for me is winning games and however that looks and whatever that takes, I’m all in.” This team-first mentality is a testament to his professionalism.
The Implications of a Split-Back System
Both running backs are no strangers to sharing the load. Hubbard operated in a split-back system in 2022 with D’Onta Foreman, while Dowdle split carries with Ezekiel Elliott early last season. This shared experience suggests they can adapt to a committee approach, which seems increasingly likely given Dowdle’s emergence.
Dowdle acknowledged the importance of rhythm for a running back but expressed confidence in Carolina’s ability to manage carries effectively. He also pointed out that he cramped up in the fourth quarter of the past two home games, underscoring the benefit of having multiple capable backs like Trevor Etienne and DeeJay Dallas available to handle the workload. “The way I think we’ll do it, I don’t think it’ll be hard to get into a rhythm at all, especially the way those guys blocking up front,” Dowdle said.
Fan Community and Fantasy Football Outlook
For the avid Panthers fan community and fantasy football managers alike, the uncertainty creates both excitement and concern. While Hubbard is considered the franchise’s long-term solution at running back, Dowdle’s sensational performances have undoubtedly shifted the dynamics. Many predict that Hubbard’s previous “workload monopoly” may not be fully restored, leading to a more pronounced committee approach.
The Jets’ run defense, ranked 23rd in the league and allowing 130 yards per game, presents a favorable matchup for the Panthers’ ground attack, according to official NFL statistics. This could mean ample opportunities for both backs to make an impact. The friendship between Hubbard and Dowdle is also a positive sign, with Hubbard regularly congratulating Dowdle on big plays, demonstrating a supportive locker room environment despite the competition.
Injury Update: Pat Jones Out for the Season
In other team news, outside linebacker Pat Jones will miss the remainder of the season due to a lower back injury. Canales confirmed the injury, stating that Jones felt pain the day after playing the entire game against the Cowboys. The coach did not specify who would fill Jones’ starting role moving forward, adding another layer of strategic adjustment for the Panthers.
