Chuba Hubbard headlines a crowded Carolina backfield with a clear early-down, goal-line role heading into 2025, but his pass-game utilization is under pressure. Hubbard graded as an efficient back in 2023 and made the Panthers comfortable enough to sign an extension in 2024, finishing as a top-15 PPR back despite modest receiving yards. Carolina added Trevor Etienne and Rico Dowdle, and Jonathon Brooks returned from ACL injury, making Hubbard's target volume the key risk for fantasy managers. If Bryce Young sustains late-2024 momentum, Hubbard could still carry RB2 value in non-PPR and near-RB2 territory in PPR formats, but the ceiling is capped by the committee for targets and goal-line carries. The backfield’s depth suggests instability in weekly projections, with Hubbard’s floor anchored in carries and red-zone work while the others siphon passing-game opportunities.

In short, Hubbard remains the foundation of the Panthers’ rushing attack, but don’t overlook the pass-catching and committee dynamics introduced by Etienne, Dowdle, Brooks, and Young’s development. A smart draft plan addresses the risk-reward balance: Hubbard as a safe carry-based RB2 with upside if the offense unlocks more passing-game work, while stashing Etienne or Dowdle as late-round depth for pivot weeks and bye-week flexibility.

The Los Angeles Rams have signed Terrance Ferguson, their 46th overall pick in the recent NFL Draft, to his rookie deal valued at $9.71 million. This contract includes $8.05 million in guaranteed money, amounting to about 83% guaranteed. Interestingly, Ferguson's deal is more favorable than last year's 46th pick, Jonathon Brooks, who received less guaranteed money despite being selected in the same slot. The delay in Ferguson's signing was attributed to the trend of other second-round picks demanding fully guaranteed contracts.

The Baltimore Ravens have made headlines by signing running back Derrick Henry to a historic two-year, $30 million contract extension, the largest deal ever for a running back over the age of 30. This extension assures Henry $25 million in guarantees for the upcoming seasons.

In his first season with the Ravens, Henry showcased his elite talent, accumulating over 1,900 rushing yards and achieving 16 touchdowns, which solidified his status as a top-tier running back in the league. According to early fantasy rankings, he is projected to be the RB3 for the upcoming season.

The Carolina Panthers made a surprising roster move by waiving linebacker Kenny Dyson Jr., a notable player from their offseason training. This decision came as a shock, especially since Dyson had shown significant potential during OTAs and was expected to be part of the team’s plans moving forward. The cut was not due to performance issues but resulted from a sudden change dictated by the league, which left the Panthers with limited options. Initially, the team had received approval to place running back Jonathon Brooks on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, which would have created space for Dyson, but that opportunity quickly vanished.

This unexpected maneuver raises questions about the Panthers' overall strategy and readiness for the season. Dyson's departure could affect the team's defensive depth, especially as they prepare for a challenging upcoming schedule. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how this decision influences the Panthers’ performance in the weeks ahead.

The Carolina Panthers have placed running back Jonathon Brooks on the physically unable to perform list, effectively sidelining him for the entire 2025 season. This decision follows Brooks' ongoing recovery from an ACL tear sustained in December. Head coach Dave Canales emphasized that this move allows Brooks to concentrate on his rehabilitation without the stress of returning to play too soon.

Brooks, who previously missed significant time after tearing his first ACL during his college career at Texas, is now aiming for a full recovery. Canales noted that the focus is on ensuring Brooks returns at peak performance. The Panthers are hopeful that giving Brooks this extended time will ultimately benefit both him and the team's future.