4 best kept secrets on the Carolina Panthers roster in 2021

Chuba Hubbard – Carolina Panthers RB

Losing Mike Davis in free agency was inevitable after the running back performed so well in Christian McCaffrey’s absence last season. The veteran accumulated more than 1,000 all-purpose yards at a time when the Carolina Panthers needed him the most and he cannot be blamed for cashing in at this stage of his career.

The Panthers will see a lot of Davis after he signed a two-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons, but the organization managed to pick up an intriguing rookie during the 2021 NFL Draft that could give them some instant production right from the word go.

Chuba Hubbard was selected in the fourth round out of Oklahoma State and comes onto the roster with a substantial amount of upside. He is an explosive individual that is clearly highly thought of by the coaching staff, so it gives them far more in the way of options if they want to take some of the heat off McCaffrey moving forward.

This seems essential from the outside looking in. McCaffrey’s iron man image came to an end in 2021 when he featured in just three games and if the same happens again, it’s going to be a real problem.

Hubbard can come in and be a force when the All-Pro needs some rest. There is also the option of implementing two-back sets more frequently and if McCaffrey misses time once again, they have a ready-made replacement.

Providing there is a smooth adjustment and Hubbard earns some carries in Year 1, look for him to make some noise in front of an improved offensive line.