Dave Canales Makes First Comments After Devastating Jonathon Brooks Injury

Panthers rookie RB Jonathon Brooks suffered a devastating knee injury during Sunday's loss to the Eagles, tearing his ACL for the second time in 13 months. His long-term career could suddenly be in question and head coach Dave Canales gave his first comments regarding the stunning news.

Speaking to the media, Canales expressed concern and noted how heartbreaking the incident is. Brooks had just returned from the injured reserve list and played only three games, barely getting an opportunity to get his feet wet in the NFL.

It's unclear exactly how long Brooks will be out. No matter what, suffering another tear to the same ACL is a terrible thing for a 21-year-old player to return from.

Dave Canales Breaks Silence on Jonathon Brooks Injury

"My heart is with him,” Canales said. “I mean, just the amount of work he put in to get back to this place, to get him to play. So, he’s heartbroken, I’m heartbroken, the whole group just feeling for him."

Brooks' rookie season ends with just nine carries for 22 yards. He was a star at Texas, putting up 1,425 yards from scrimmage and 11 TDs during his final year. Sadly, he'll have to wait and undergo extensive rehab before he can try to replicate that success at the professional level.

"We’ll be here every step of the way with him, supporting him through this journey," Canales continued. "He knows how to do this. He’ll be able to attack it, and his focus is just gonna shift in terms of what he’s competing for."

Those are wise words from the coach who has helped the Panthers play inspiring football over the last month. Chuba Hubbard, fresh off a four-year contract extension, will remain the lead back.

Once Brooks ultimately return, Carolina envisions a two-headed monster in the backfield while Bryce Young continues to develop. For now though, all thoughts are with Brooks as he embarks on another long recovery.

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