With the 2026 NFL season right around the corner, Dave Canales and the Carolina Panthers have a massive decision to make in the backfield. Today, we are breaking down the high-stakes RB1 battle between the proven, steady veteran leader Chuba Hubbard and the incredibly explosive, young playmaker Jonathon Brooks.

Now that Brooks is officially cleared and feeling close to 100% after recovering from a tough stretch with ACL injuries, can his elite home-run ability and modern skill set push him past the ultra-reliable Chuba Hubbard? Hubbard has solidified himself as the engine of this ground game, but with a brutal Week 5 bye ahead requiring 13 straight weeks of continuous regular-season play, how will the coaches split the touches? We dive deep into the film, the training camp expectations, and what this mean for Bryce Young and the entire Panthers offense in 2026. Drop a comment below with your pick: Are you Team Chuba or Team Brooks for RB1?