The Carolina Panthers have two talented running backs. One might outperform the other, and it might be against expectation.

Jonathon Brooks start 'em, sit 'em fantasy football picks for Week 1 of 2026. Should you start or sit Jonathon Brooks for fantasy football lineups in Week 1?

Brooks was selected by Carolina with the No. 46 overall pick in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. He entered the league with lots of promise, but his road back to the field has been anything but simple.

Training camp and preseason performances can quickly reshape fantasy football rankings. Some players enter August buried on depth charts before injuries, strong practices, or impressive preseason appearances create new opportunities.

Jonathan Brooks has league-winning upside in 2026. He's healthy, has a path to the Panthers' RB1 job, and his pass-catching could separate him.

The Panthers have a fierce battle at running back, which may suggest one Panther is too high in the average draft position.