What can the Carolina Panthers expect from Chuba Hubbard in 2021?

What could the Carolina Panthers potentially expect from new running back Chuba Hubbard in 2021?

Finding a primary backup running back to Christian McCaffrey following the departure of Mike Davis to the Atlanta Falcons was absolutely essential for the Carolina Panthers’ chances moving forward. The All-Pro is expected to be firing on all cylinders providing there are no complications in training camp or OTAs, but taking some of the load off would be beneficial to his long-term aspirations after turning out in just three games last season.

The Panthers obviously didn’t think that Rodney Smith, Reggie Bonnafon, or Trenton Cannon were ready for such a responsibility. This left them looking at the 2021 NFL Draft and picking up Chuba Hubbard in the fourth round was a shrewd bit of business by the front office.

Hubbard is no stranger to head coach Matt Rhule having torched his Baylor Bears in college. The former Oklahoma State star is a big play waiting to happen and has all the athletic attributes Carolina sought heavily during their recruitment once again to further enhance his credentials.

The incoming rookie doesn’t have to be spectacular during his rookie campaign.

If he can come in and made an impact when called upon, get himself involved when McCaffrey is also on the field, and pick up the slack if the face of the franchise is forced to miss time, this will be all the Panthers require at this stage.

Carolina Panthers see potential in Chuba Hubbard.

There is little doubt that Hubbard needs to work on certain areas of his game to make a real go of things at the next level. His inability to stay upright after contact is well known and his pass-catching also needs some refinement in the pros. But the player has more upside than most and could make an instant impact with a smooth transition.

Having arguably the NFL’s best dual-threat back to work alongside has the potential to progress Hubbard’s game considerably. McCaffrey won’t feel any pressure for his starting job from the player, so he can provide some tricks of the trade that will be highly beneficial moving forward.

If Hubbard lives up to his billing, he should be able to make an instant contribution.

It’s easy to forget the player racked up 2,094 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns in 2019 – which was enough to finish eighth in the Heisman Trophy voting. So the potential is there for all to see.

Davis cannot be blamed for cashing in elsewhere after filling in well for McCaffrey last season, even if it was with an NFC South rival. However, the Panthers got themselves a more than adequate replacement in Hubbard and one that could solidify the primary backup role long term.

Rhule is clearly a big fan of Hubbard.

And with good reason.

As far as landing spots go, the player couldn’t be in a better one. So it’s essential Hubbard takes on board everything during rookie minicamp, OTAs, and training camp in order to hit the ground running when opportunities come his way next season.

Carolina lost eight games by one score last season. This would have looked far different had McCaffrey been on the field and the Panthers know that keeping him fit and fresh is a key component to their aspirations of potentially making the playoffs next time around.

Hubbard has a big part to play. And it will be interesting to see how the gifted player copes with such a substantial step up in class.