The Carolina Panthers’ Backfield Sign Former First-Round Pick Rashaad Penny
The Carolina Panthers have made a significant move to bolster their backfield, as they plan to sign former first-round pick Rashaad Penny. This signing reunites Penny with head coach Dave Canales, with whom he previously worked during their time with the Seattle Seahawks.
This decision comes as no surprise, with the news being confirmed by a league source. The official announcement is expected to be made following the team’s rookie minicamp this weekend. Penny will be joining a talented group of running backs in Carolina, including 2024 second-round pick Jonathon Brooks, Chuba Hubbard, Miles Sanders, and Raheem Blackshear.
Brooks, who is recovering from a torn ACL suffered last season while playing for Texas, has expressed confidence in being medically cleared in time for training camp. However, the addition of extra backs will provide valuable depth and support as he transitions back into the team’s system.
Penny’s familiarity with Canales’ offensive system is seen as a significant advantage. The system, known for its emphasis on the running game and versatility, saw Penny achieve his best season with the Seahawks in 2021. That year, he rushed for an impressive 749 yards and six touchdowns under Canales’ guidance as the passing game coordinator.
With the addition of Penny, the Panthers also have the potential to explore trading Sanders, who was displaced from the starting lineup by Hubbard last season. Despite this, general manager Dan Morgan has expressed confidence in Sanders’ abilities, envisioning a significant role for the former second-round pick out of Penn State.
Having spent last season with the Philadelphia Eagles, Penny’s playing time was limited, appearing in just three games and rushing for 33 yards on 11 carries. Originally selected by the Seahawks in the first round of the 2018 draft, Penny has amassed 1,951 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns over his six-season career.
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