Panthers’ RB Shines Bright Amid Rising Challenges
Hubbard, hailing from Canada, has emerged as one of the top running backs this season, despite playing for a struggling team. Over the past four weeks, he has averaged over 100 rushing yards per game and more than 6 yards per carry in his last five outings.
This is particularly impressive for a team that often abandons the run when trailing—Carolina has given up the most points in the league, totaling 203.
Currently, Hubbard’s 485 rushing yards rank third in the NFL, trailing only Derrick Henry from Baltimore and Jordan Mason from San Francisco. His pass-blocking skills and receiving ability have also improved; he’s caught 22 of the 24 passes thrown his way this season, totaling 93 yards and a touchdown. “I pride myself on being a complete back,” he stated.
At just 25, Hubbard is fueled by a desire to support his family, a love for the game, and the ambition to become one of the NFL’s greatest running backs. Despite facing numerous challenges, he continues to push forward.
Drafted in the fourth round in 2021, he initially played behind Christian McCaffrey, the Panthers’ starting RB. When McCaffrey was injured, Hubbard seized his opportunity, rushing for 612 yards and five touchdowns in ten starts.
The following year, after McCaffrey was traded to San Francisco, the Panthers chose D’Onta Foreman as their primary running back, relegating Hubbard to a backup role.
After Foreman departed via free agency, the Panthers signed Miles Sanders to a lucrative four-year, $24.5 million contract, making him the team’s “every-down back,” according to former coach Frank Reich.
However, Sanders couldn’t maintain the starting role for long. Six games into the 2023 season, Hubbard stepped up as the starter, finishing with a career-high 902 rushing yards and five touchdowns. Though he has retained the starting position, questions remain about his long-term role.
This year, the Panthers drafted Jonathan Brooks in the second round, eyeing him as the future lead back once he recovers from a torn ACL. Brooks recently practiced for the first time, signaling a new chapter ahead.
Coach Dave Canales has yet to specify what role Brooks will play when he returns to the field.
Given Hubbard’s strong performance and his impressive 5.6 yards per carry average, it’s clear he won’t easily relinquish the starting position.
Hubbard has caught Canales‘ attention with his swift and decisive running style, which aligns well with the coach’s offensive strategy. Canales noted, “He’s not afraid of those tough 2- and 3-yard runs where you have to push through. Later in the game, those runs can turn into 8s and 12s, and then a big 25-yard gain. His discipline and commitment to the system are key.”
Hubbard commented, “I think the position often gets overlooked, and people assume anyone can do it. But truly understanding runs, gaps, schemes, and various plays requires patience.”
Canales sees Brooks as more of a “home run threat,” suggesting he will eventually get his chance to shine.
For now, Hubbard remains the starting running back for Carolina as they approach Week 7, set to face the Washington Commanders and six-time All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner on Sunday.
Wagner acknowledged the challenge of stopping Hubbard, stating, “I like the way he runs. He finishes plays well and sees openings effectively. He’s going to be a tough matchup for us.”