Carolina Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard was placed on injured reserve on Saturday due to a calf injury. Hubbard, who was initially listed as questionable for Carolina’s upcoming game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, experienced significant pain following Friday’s practice, prompting further evaluation. An MRI revealed that Hubbard had sustained a Grade 2 calf strain, necessitating his move to injured reserve.
With Hubbard sidelined, Raheem Blackshear remains the sole running back on the Panthers’ active roster. Blackshear, who has accumulated three carries for 13 yards this season, will likely see an increased workload in Hubbard’s absence.
Hubbard, who recently signed a lucrative four-year, $33.2 million contract extension, has enjoyed a standout season, setting career-high marks in rushing yards (1,195), rushing touchdowns (10), and receptions (43) through 15 games as a starter. The 25-year-old showcased his prowess in the Panthers’ recent overtime victory over the Arizona Cardinals, delivering a stellar 152-yard, two-touchdown performance that culminated in a game-winning 21-yard touchdown run in overtime. Hubbard’s exceptional showing earned him NFC Offensive Player of the Week honors.
Throughout his 64-game career with Carolina, including 39 starts, Hubbard has amassed an impressive 3,175 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns, complemented by 121 receptions for 749 yards and two receiving scores. The Panthers drafted Hubbard in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Oklahoma State, where he established himself as a dynamic playmaker.
Despite Hubbard’s absence, the Panthers will look to Blackshear and other offensive weapons to step up and fill the void left by the talented running back. Hubbard’s injury serves as a reminder of the physical toll that professional athletes endure in pursuit of success on the gridiron. Carolina will need to adapt and adjust their game plan moving forward as they navigate the challenges posed by Hubbard’s absence.
As the Panthers strive to finish the season on a strong note, Hubbard’s teammates and fans alike will undoubtedly miss his contributions on the field. The team’s depth and resilience will be tested in the wake of Hubbard’s injury, highlighting the unpredictable nature of professional football and the need for adaptability in the face of adversity.
The Panthers will continue to support Hubbard in his recovery process, prioritizing his health and well-being as he works towards a return to action. In the meantime, the team remains focused on their upcoming matchups, aiming to finish the season with determination and unity despite the challenges they may face along the way.
Hubbard’s impact on the Panthers’ offense and his impressive performance this season will be remembered as a testament to his talent and work ethic. As he embarks on his road to recovery, Hubbard will undoubtedly draw strength from the support of his teammates, coaches, and fans as he looks ahead to returning to the field stronger and more determined than ever.
