What happened: The Carolina Panthers officially placed running back Jonathon Brooks on injured reserve Wednesday because of a core muscle injury. The team promoted safety Isaiah Simmons from the practice squad to fill the corresponding active roster spot.

Why it matters: Brooks requires surgery to repair the injury and must miss a minimum of four games. The extended absence removes a key piece of the offense and leaves the Panthers evaluating their backfield options moving forward.

What to watch: Carolina is reportedly working out veteran Austin Ekeler to potentially supplement their running back depth.