The groin injury that limited Carolina Panthers running back Jonathon Brooks at the end of preseason resurfaced in Sunday’s win over the Atlanta Falcons. Brooks is expected to have surgery on Wednesday, prompting the team to place him on inured reserve. With Trevor Etienne already out, depth at the running backs position becomes an issue. The team is set to work out veteran Austin Ekeler on Wednesday.
To fill the vacated roster spot, the Panthers have promoted safety Isaiah Simmons from the practice squad. Simmons had been elevated to the active roster for both games this season and adds special teams prowess.
The open practice squad spot has been filled with linebacker Maema Njongmeta, who was with the Panthers last season and through the offseason. With Cluadin Cherelus’ early departure from Sunday’s game due to a shoulder injury created a need at both linebacker and on special teams. Njongmeta was fourth on the team in special teams tackles last season.
