Dave Canales refuses to turn down the Carolina Panthers' bombshell trade opportunity

The Carolina Panthers received some encouraging news on the injury front following their Week 6 loss to the Atlanta Falcons. Head coach Dave Canales confirmed that Jonathon Brooks is ready to open his 21-day training window after missing nearly a year with a torn ACL. It's something that has caused some excitement among fans despite the team's six-week struggles.

Carolina saw something in Brooks, despite the serious injury he suffered during his final college campaign at Texas. They traded up to secure his services at No. 46 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. His impending return could change the running back's dynamic in an instant, barring any further setbacks.

This week Canales was asked about an overlooked scenario. It was an outrageous trade involving Chuba Hubbard, the team's current No. 1 backcourt who has played exceptionally well this season.

Canales did not completely rule this out during the investigation. However, the former Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator was quick to praise Hubbard for his commitment to improving and developing the leadership, which continues to set a positive tone.

“Here too, we just have to get Jonathon [Brooks] Look out there at where he is, assess how he plays football and how he moves with confidence and then we will make those decisions. It's just the way he is [Chuba Hubbard] comes to work every day with the focus and mentality to get better. He really has the mentality that I love and want us all to grow into as a group. And he's improving – every day in practice, from game to game, in the different ways he pushes runs, takes protection or runs certain routes. He relentlessly strives to be his best and that is the leadership we need.”

– Dave Canales via USA Today

That's absolutely out of the question, although there's a price to pay for having a team like the Panthers constantly in turmoil. Brooks will need some time to get back to top form. The activation of his training window is positive, but when he will get back on the field is unclear.

Putting too much on your plate will do more harm than good. Hubbard has proven over the last two years that he is capable of carrying a heavy load. He averages 5.6 yards per carry and has a rush success rate of 64.0 percent, according to Pro Football Reference. That's the kind of player you build an offense around, especially considering Canales has preached his perceived stubbornness when it comes to running the football this season.

Hubbard's contract situation also needs to be factored into the equation. The 2021 fourth-round pick is looking for a new contract next spring. Paying running backs on second contracts isn't the current trend in the league, but general manager Dan Morgan wants to reward those who are drafted by the franchise and prove their worth.

As always with these things, it comes down to money and what the Panthers feel is an acceptable offer. One would expect Miles Sanders to be a more likely candidate to move depending on the compensation involved, but there's just no telling what this front office is thinking as Carolina is 1-5 and going nowhere fast.

Hubbard would attract interest if he were made available. While Canales hasn't completely dismissed the idea, it shouldn't be considered unless it's a massive offer that Morgan can't refuse.

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