Charlotte, NC – As the Carolina Panthers navigate the offseason, a key question looms over their offensive strategy: how will they address the running back position? Following a 2025 season where Rico Dowdle emerged as the team’s most effective rusher, the Panthers are now facing decisions about both retaining talent and improving a rushing attack that finished 19th in the league, according to ESPN stats https://www.espn.com/nfl/stats/rushing. The situation is further complicated by head coach Dave Canales’ stated preference for a two-back system.
Dowdle, who logged 1,076 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 236 attempts in 2025, is set to become a free agent in 2026. Whereas Chuba Hubbard is currently under contract, the Panthers appear poised to explore options to bolster their ground game, particularly as they continue to develop quarterback Bryce Young. One name gaining traction in discussions is Seattle Seahawks running back Zach Charbonnet, a connection fueled by Canales’ prior coaching experience.
Canales’ Familiarity with Charbonnet
The potential pursuit of Charbonnet isn’t simply about filling a need; it’s also about leveraging existing relationships. Canales served as the quarterbacks coach for the Seattle Seahawks in 2022, Charbonnet’s rookie season. Panthers offensive coordinator Brad Idzik was also with the Seahawks that year as an assistant receivers coach before joining Canales in Tampa Bay and then Carolina. This shared history, as noted by multiple reports, suggests a level of comfort and understanding that could expedite Charbonnet’s integration into the Panthers’ offense.
“In a huge league that operates in a tiny world, familiarity often drives new pairings,” analysts have observed, highlighting the importance of established connections in NFL personnel decisions.
Financial Considerations and Roster Flexibility
Acquiring Charbonnet won’t be without its challenges. The Panthers currently have just over $9 million in available cap space. Charbonnet is projected to command roughly $9 million per year on his next contract, meaning the team would likely need to create additional cap room to accommodate his salary. This could involve making difficult decisions regarding other players on the roster.
However, Canales’ commitment to a tandem backfield suggests that even with Charbonnet’s arrival, Hubbard would still have a role. The coach’s preference for utilizing multiple running backs could allow both players to contribute, maximizing the versatility of the offense. This approach aligns with Canales’ coaching philosophy, which emphasizes adaptability and exploiting matchups.
Dowdle’s Future and the Panthers’ Options
The Panthers face a critical decision regarding Dowdle. After proving himself as the most effective runner in 2025, his departure would leave a void in the backfield. Whether the team attempts to re-sign him or seeks a replacement through free agency or the draft will significantly shape their offensive identity in 2026.
The team’s success in improving their rushing attack will be crucial, especially as they aim to provide Young with a more balanced offensive attack. A strong running game can alleviate pressure on the young quarterback and open up opportunities in the passing game.
The Panthers’ situation is a prime example of how NFL roster construction often involves a complex interplay of talent evaluation, financial constraints, and coaching preferences. As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Carolina to see how they address the running back position and build an offense capable of competing in a challenging NFC South division.
What impact will a potential running back overhaul have on Bryce Young’s development? Share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with fellow Panthers fans!
