For the first time in his NFL career, Carolina Panthers running back Jonathon Brooks will be in uniform (and on the field) for a regular-season opener.
After dealing with groin soreness throughout the week, a minor setback that limited him at practice on Wednesday and Thursday, Brooks has entered Sunday without a game designation. And the third-year rusher, who was a full participant during Friday's session, will not be on any type of leash against the Chicago Bears—per head coach Dave Canales.
"No limitations," Canales said of Brooks following Friday's practice. "Just ready to see him play and just utilize his talents the best way possible, with some different things. But also, just running the football.
"Very excited to see Chuba [Hubbard] get
back to his work, and this is a tandem we've been thinking about for a really long time and I'm excited to see those guys get out there and help their team."
A pair of ACL tears limited Brooks to just three regular-season games over his first two NFL campaigns.
He appeared in two preseason games this summer, rushing for 23 yards on eight carries and adding in a 9-yard reception.
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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Is Jonathon Brooks playing today? Week 1 updates for the Panthers RB
