Breaking News:Rookie Running Back Officially Joins Panthers Roster Following Tuesday Signing…
The Carolina Panthers made a key addition to their roster this week, officially bringing rookie running back Trevor Etienne on board with a contract signing that took place Tuesday. The move marks the beginning of what the franchise hopes will be a successful NFL career for the promising young back, who enters the league with high expectations after a standout college career.
Etienne, selected by the Panthers in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, brings speed, power, and versatility to a Carolina backfield that is undergoing a period of transition. The signing ensures Etienne will be under contract ahead of rookie minicamp, a critical stage in a young player’s development and a chance for him to begin building chemistry with the coaching staff and teammates.
Though the specific terms of the deal were not released, Etienne’s contract is expected to align with the league’s rookie wage scale, typical for players drafted in his position. The four-year agreement includes base salary, signing bonuses, and performance-based incentives that could add value over time as he contributes on the field.
Etienne, the younger brother of Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne, built a strong reputation at the University of Florida, where he compiled over 1,600 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns across two seasons. His ability to break tackles, catch passes out of the backfield, and create big plays in space made him a coveted prospect for teams seeking an explosive offensive weapon.
Panthers general manager Dan Morgan spoke briefly after the signing was made official, emphasizing the team’s excitement about Etienne’s potential. “Trevor is a player we believe can help us immediately,” Morgan said. “He’s a tough, instinctive runner who also adds value as a receiver. We’re eager to see how he develops in our system.”
Etienne now enters a backfield competition that includes returning veterans and young players looking to solidify their roles. With Carolina aiming to bounce back from a difficult 2024 season, the coaching staff is expected to give the rookie every opportunity to earn meaningful playing time. His skill set could be particularly valuable in third-down and change-of-pace situations, as the team looks to diversify its offensive approach under new head coach Dave Canales.
Tuesday’s signing not only locks in an important draft pick but also signals the start of a new chapter for both Etienne and the Panthers. With the rookie now officially part of the roster, attention will turn to training camp, where he’ll begin to carve out his role in Carolina’s offensive plans.
For fans, the addition of a promising young runner brings a renewed sense of optimism. The Panthers are clearly investing in young talent as part of their long-term rebuild, and Etienne’s arrival is another step toward building a competitive and dynamic team.
