The Carolina Panthers inevitably lost Rico Dowdle in free agency. This was always the likeliest scenario after the club's relationship with the running back soured. But reports suggested that general manager Dan Morgan was in no rush to find a replacement.
Carolina already has Chuba Hubbard, who was still viewed by head coach Dave Canales as a lead back. Trevor Etienne showed promise as a kick returner, and the Panthers are high on his future outlook. There is also Jonathon Brooks, who is expected to be back from a torn ACL in time for OTAs after a frustrating first two seasons in the NFL.