Carolina Panthers running back Trevor Etienne returned from injured reserve in Week 5, but he has had a limited impact since coming back. Across four games, the second-year back has recorded 10 carries for 15 yards. Still, head coach Dave Canales said the team is counting on Etienne to establish a role, even as Jonathan Brooks works toward a potential return.
“We’ll figure all that out,” Canales said when asked about Etienne’s role. “I’m really counting on Trevor to continue to find a role and a way to affect it. He had some nice runs in the game and seems to be settling into his return role.”
Etienne had a season-high two carries for seven yards in Carolina’s Week 9 loss. Offensive coordinator Brad Idzik said the fourth-round pick had been decisive on a few of his limited offensive snaps. Idzik noted that Etienne must stay prepared to execute the play scheme and find his target, even when he does not know how many carries he will receive.
“He doesn’t really have a chance to find his groove if he’s not getting the bulk of the carries early,” Idzik said, while emphasizing the importance of consistency in practice and being ready when opportunities arise.
Etienne has also contributed on special teams. Idzik said his decisiveness has carried over to the kick-return game. Etienne has returned four kickoffs for 96 yards and seven punts for 75 yards.
The Panthers selected Etienne 114th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. He finished his rookie season with 20 carries for 94 yards, then suffered an ankle injury early in his second season. During his absence, opportunities opened up in the backfield while Brooks was also dealing with an injury.
Etienne is now working his way back into the lineup, and Carolina has opened Brooks’ practice window. If Brooks returns, Etienne could remain a part-time player, with his offensive snaps potentially decreasing. His role as a kick and punt returner, however, gives the Panthers another way to use him.
Etienne has 109 rushing yards in his career. Carolina’s next game is a Week 10 matchup against the New Orleans Saints.
