Panthers signing ex-Seahawks rushing leader to deal

The Carolina Panthers recently hired a former Seattle Seahawks coach in Dave Canales, and now they are bringing in a former Seahawks rushing leader as well.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported Monday that veteran running back Rashaad Penny plans to sign with the Panthers. The signing will likely take place after rookie minicamp, Fowler adds.

The 28-year-old Penny, an ex-first-round draft pick, played for Seattle from 2018-22 and led the team in rushing during the 2021 season with 749 yards and six touchdowns. Canales, who was hired as Carolina’s new head coach in January, was an offensive coach for the Seahawks throughout that time.

Penny spent last season with the Philadelphia Eagles but made just three appearances in a crowded backfield. He also has a concerning history of injuries, notably suffering a torn ACL in 2019 and a broken fibula in 2022. 

Still, the Panthers need a bit more excitement than last season’s RB duo of Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders, so they are taking a swing on Penny to add to their offseason of skill-player additions.