Chuba Hubbard, the dynamic running back from Oklahoma State University, saw his rookie season with the Carolina Panthers come to an end. Despite a season filled with ups and downs, Hubbard showed promising signs of becoming a key player for the Panthers in the future.
Hubbard was drafted by the Panthers in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He was expected to be a backup to star running back Christian McCaffrey, but due to McCaffrey’s injuries, Hubbard was thrust into a starting role much earlier than anticipated.
In his debut season, Hubbard rushed for 427 yards and three touchdowns on 128 carries, averaging 3.3 yards per carry. He also caught 27 passes for 165 yards. These numbers may not seem impressive when compared to the league’s top running backs, but considering he was a rookie who was expected to play a backup role, they are quite respectable.
Hubbard’s best game came in Week 4 against the Dallas Cowboys, where he rushed for 101 yards on 13 carries. He showed his ability to break tackles and make defenders miss, showcasing his potential as a starting running back in the NFL.
However, Hubbard’s season was not without its struggles. He had difficulty finding consistent running lanes and often struggled in pass protection. These are areas he will need to improve on if he wants to secure a starting role in the future.
Despite these struggles, Hubbard’s performance this season was a bright spot in what was otherwise a disappointing season for the Panthers. With McCaffrey’s injury history, Hubbard’s development could be crucial for the Panthers moving forward.
The Panthers’ coaching staff has expressed confidence in Hubbard’s ability to develop into a reliable starting running back. Head coach Matt Rhule praised Hubbard’s work ethic and attitude, stating that he has all the tools necessary to succeed at the highest level.
“He’s a young player who’s learning every day,” Rhule said. “He’s got great speed, he’s got great vision, and he’s got a great work ethic. Those are all things that will serve him well as he continues to develop.”
Looking ahead, Hubbard’s role with the Panthers will largely depend on McCaffrey’s health. If McCaffrey can stay healthy, Hubbard will likely serve as his backup. However, if McCaffrey continues to struggle with injuries, Hubbard could find himself in a starting role once again.
Regardless of his role, Hubbard has shown that he has the potential to be a productive player in the NFL. His rookie season may have come to an end, but his journey with the Carolina Panthers is just beginning. Fans and team management alike will be eagerly watching his progress in the coming seasons.