The Carolina Panthers are preparing for their preseason opener against the Cleveland Browns, and the spotlight is on rookie Trevor Etienne, who is looking to establish himself in the team’s backfield alongside veterans Chuba Hubbard and Rico Dowdle. While Etienne is not expected to compete for starting ground work against these experienced players, he has the potential to make a significant impact as a pass-catcher during his rookie year.
Hubbard, currently the starting running back, had a challenging 2024 season, averaging just 3.2 yards per target, which ranked him last among 31 running backs with at least 40 targets. Dowdle, who the Panthers signed from the Dallas Cowboys, also struggled in this area, finishing with an average of 5.1 yards per target. This opens the door for Etienne to showcase his skills and possibly secure a role in the passing game, which would be valuable for the Panthers’ offensive strategy.
As training camp kicks off, Etienne will have the opportunity to demonstrate his abilities, particularly in the upcoming game against the Browns. Having depth in the backfield can be a significant asset for the Panthers, ensuring versatility and options for their playmakers.
This preseason marks a critical time for young players like Etienne to prove their worth, and fans will be eager to see how he performs on the field under the bright lights of Bank of America Stadium.