Carolina Panthers signed running back AJ Dillon, who played for Philadelphia Eagles in the 2025 season. The transaction took place this Wednesday and involves a one-year contract, according to league sources. The move comes just days after the departure of Rico Dowdle, who signed with Pittsburgh Steelers as a free agent.
The arrival of Dillon adds experience to the franchise’s group of running backs. Ele joins Chuba Hubbard, holder of the position, and Trevor Etienne, who played a prominent role mainly on special teams during the previous year. The team also has Jonathon Brooks, who returns after missing the entire 2025 season with an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
Immediate reinforcement in the backfield
Dillon arrives as a physical strength option for specific situations. The 1.83 m and 112 kg athlete stood out in short distance races throughout his career.
Panthers have struggled with short advances in some 2025 games. The presence of Dillon could help resolve this aspect of the land game.
New hire career profile
AJ Dillon was selected in the second round of the 2020 draft by Green Bay Packers, coming from Boston College. In four seasons with the Wisconsin team, he accumulated 2,497 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns in 63 games played.
The running back also recorded 87 receptions for 776 yards in the same period. Seu’s best performance occurred in 2021, when he reached 1,141 total yards despite acting as a supporting player for Aaron Jones.
Dillon missed the full 2024 season with a neck injury. In 2025, with the Eagles, he played in seven games and rushed for 60 yards on 12 attempts.
Recent move details
The signing represents the second arrival of a player from the Eagles to the Panthers this March. Antes of Dillon, the team signed outside linebacker Jaelan Phillips to a four-year contract.
Rico Dowdle left Carolina after recording over 1,000 rushing yards for the second consecutive season in 2025.
Expectations for the role of Dillon
The new running back turns 28 in May. Sua physical structure favors the style of play that requires power over short distances and ball protection.
Chuba Hubbard should remain the main option in the running attack. Trevor Etienne and Jonathon Brooks complete the group, with Brooks seeking full recovery after surgery.
- Dillon brings playoff experience, with three games played for Green Bay.
- The athlete maintains a history of productivity in balanced systems.
- Adapting to the Panthers’s offensive scheme will be a point of attention in training.
AJ Dillon published a message on social media shortly after the news was confirmed. Ele expressed excitement about the new opportunity and used words of motivation for the fans.
The Charlotte franchise is looking for greater depth in the backfield for the upcoming season. The addition of Dillon comes at a time of roster adjustments during free agency.
Physical aspects and university history
The running back earned a nickname related to the strength of his legs during his career. Ele demonstrated the ability to break tackles and gain yards after first contact.
In Boston College, Dillon established significant marks before reaching the NFL. Sua transition to professionalism included adapting to different offensive schemes.