The Carolina Panthers have been active during the early stages of NFL free agency, but the team did lose a key piece of its offense from last season. Running back Rico Dowdle left to sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers and gain more opportunities as a lead back. That left a gap for the organization to fill.
The Panthers are turning to free agent tailback AJ Dillon, who signed a one-year deal with the team on Wednesday, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz. The problem is that Dillon hasn’t seen meaningful snaps as a ballcarrier in three seasons.
Dillon was drafted in the second round back in 2020 and became a bulldozer for the Green Bay Packers. He worked in a timeshare with former Packers star Aaron Jones, but still put up big numbers as the backup. He earned the nickname “Quadzilla” for his massive lower half and ability to pick up the sticks in short-yardage spots or at the goal line.
In four seasons with the Packers, Dillon totalled 2,488 yards and 16 touchdowns on the ground. He did battle some injuries, however. He re-signed with the Packers for a fifth season in 2024, but missed the entire year with a neck injury.
Last offseason, he signed a one-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles, but only appeared in seven games, garnering just 12 carries all season.
Dillon’s deal with the Panthers could serve as a soft reboot for the soon-to-be 28-year-old tailback. He will likely work as a backup again, but could also see another timeshare opportunity in the backfield with Chuba Hubbard. Hubbard has dealt with injuries during his time in Carolina, meaning the door is open to Dillon making a big impact.
Carolina has also been a good place for running backs to play. Hubbard and Dowdle both had success in recent seasons, while stars like Christian McCaffrey have come before them. This could wind up being a sneaky good signing for the Panthers.
Dillon’s 6-foot, 247-pound frame makes him tough to bring down, and the NFC South does not boast many imposing run defenses that Carolina will have to contend with next season.
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