clock menu more-arrow no yes

Filed under:

RB Chuba Hubbard flashes potential in Week 1 NFL preseason

Panthers RB Chuba Hubbard had a promising effort in Week 1 of the NFL preseason. We recap his performance.

By kate.magdziuk
/ new
NFL: Carolina Panthers at Indianapolis Colts
Carolina Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard runs the ball while Indianapolis Colts defensive back Ibraheim Campbell defends in the first half at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

The Carolina Panthers head into the 2021-22 with a transition at quarterback. Matt Rhule will hope to develop Sam Darnold after his failed stint with the New York Jets. The Panthers will also look to have Christian McCaffrey healthy after the star running back was in and out of the lineup with injuries. Carolina added the dynamic Chuba Hubbard in the draft, hoping to bolster the position behind McCaffrey. We look at his performance in Week 1.

Chuba Hubbard Week 1 preseason stats

7 carries, 80 yards, 0 TD

Analysis

Hubbard broke off a 59-yard run after initially being stuffed in a pile, showing the running back’s ability to keep going after contact. Hubbard’s stock fell after he returned to Oklahoma State, but he was widely regarded as one of the top running backs in the class ahead of a poor season.

Fantasy implications

The Panthers are going to give their running back a lot of work, whether it’s McCaffrey or someone else. Hubbard doesn’t have a lot of value on his own, but he’s a great handcuff for McCaffrey owners in the event the star gets hurt. Unless McCaffrey is out due to injury, Hubbard won’t make noise in fantasy leagues.

More From DraftKings Nation