Chuba Hubbard – Carolina Panthers RB
Although Chuba Hubbard is still in his rookie season, the next five games will be an audition to determine whether or not the running back can be trusted to carry a heavy load moving forward. The fourth-round pick looks set for an increase in responsibility after Christian McCaffrey was put on season-ending injured/reserve, concluding another frustrating campaign for the All-Pro that came with just seven appearances.
Hubbard has flashed some real promise over his first few contests in a professional environment. The Oklahoma State product does find life difficult absorbing contact and breaking tackles, so whether he can become the bell cow as the Carolina Panthers aim to move forward with a power running game remains to be seen.
This is a significant opportunity for Hubbard, who’ll be sharing carries with Ameer Abdullah initially. There is also the prospect of Carolina calling up another back from the practice squad to further assist their cause.
That’s not forgetting the potential Cam Newton has when it comes to running the football. Although all this is dependent on the offensive line making some major improvements, which might not be possible.
Hubbard has a bright future once he cleans up his pass-catching. Showing an increased sense of urgency against the Atlanta Falcons and beyond will only help his cause.