Carolina Panthers’ Rookie RB Trevor Etienne Poised for Preseason Spotlight: A Deep Dive
The Carolina Panthers’ running back room is undergoing a significant transformation this offseason, and while Chuba Hubbard solidifies his role with a new contract, the real intrigue lies with the overlooked rookie stepping into the spotlight. An NFL analyst has zeroed in on Trevor Etienne, the former Georgia Bulldog, as a potential breakout star who could make the biggest splash of all this preseason. This is more than just a change of scenery; it’s a strategic shift designed to inject dynamism into an offense looking to surprise.
A Revamped Backfield: Beyond Chuba Hubbard
Chuba Hubbard returns as the presumed lead back after securing a four-year deal. However, the Panthers haven’t rested on their laurels. The release of Miles Sanders, who had one year left on his contract, paved the way for new additions and solidified the team’s commitment to a more robust running game. The signing of Rico Dowdle, fresh off a 1,000-yard season with the Dallas Cowboys, represents a potentially significant value acquisition for Carolina, adding a proven commodity to the mix.
Trevor Etienne: The Analyst’s Dark Horse Pick
Amidst the established presence of Hubbard and the proven power of Dowdle, it’s rookie Trevor Etienne who’s drawing the attention of NFL analysts like Cameron Sheath of Pro Football and Sports Network. Selected with the No. 114 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Etienne is being tipped to shine during the Panthers’ preseason schedule. Sheath points to Etienne’s dual-threat capabilities as a perfect complement to the existing backfield.
“Trevor Etienne is an interesting player to monitor over the preseason,” Sheath stated. “The Carolina Panthers have their starting running back in Chuba Hubbard, and signed former Dallas Cowboys starter Rico Dowdle in free agency. In the receiving game, Hubbard averaged 3.2 yards per target in 2024, the fewest of all 31 running backs with at least 40 targets. Dowdle was also on that list, finishing with the seventh-fewest average yards per target (5.1).”
Preseason Opportunity: A Stage for the Rookie
The upcoming preseason games, particularly the opener against the Cleveland Browns, offer Etienne a prime opportunity to showcase his talents. While there’s little doubt he’ll make the 53-man roster for Week 1 against the Jacksonville Jaguars, the true test is how he performs in live NFL game action. Head Coach Dave Canales has indicated that starters will see limited snaps, around 10-12 plays, creating a significant runway for Etienne to make his case.
The Panthers are in an enviable position, able to develop Etienne at his own pace. With Hubbard and Dowdle shouldering the initial load, the rookie can focus on integrating into the offense and demonstrating his ability to be a valuable asset, especially in the passing game. His performance during these exhibition matches will be crucial in determining his role and potential contribution.
The Pass-Catching Advantage
A critical area where Etienne could carve out immediate playing time is in the receiving game. Both Hubbard and Dowdle showed limitations in this department last season, with modest yards per target. Etienne’s reputation as a capable receiver out of the backfield provides a dimension the Panthers’ running game lacked. This versatility could unlock new offensive strategies for coordinator Dorsey, particularly against defenses focused on stopping the run.
The anticipation is that Etienne will be eager to impress, using every snap to prove the doubters wrong and establish himself as a legitimate threat. If he seizes this preseason opportunity, he could emerge as a key piece of the Panthers’ offensive resurgence, providing a much-needed spark and change-of-pace option.
Future Implications and Strategic Value
The Panthers’ approach to their running back room signifies a forward-thinking strategy. By investing in a blend of proven talent and promising rookie potential, they are building depth and versatility. Etienne’s development is key to this strategy, offering a dynamic element that could elevate the entire offense. The preseason will be a vital proving ground, not just for Etienne, but for the Panthers’ overall offensive outlook.
The success of this approach hinges on how effectively Etienne integrates and performs. Should he live up to the analyst hype and demonstrate his capabilities, the Panthers could have secured a steal in the later rounds of the draft, one who significantly bolsters their offensive attack. The coming weeks will reveal if the rookie running back can indeed make the biggest splash.
What are your predictions for Trevor Etienne’s impact this preseason? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
