5 key observations from Carolina Panthers 2022 preseason finale vs. Bills
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers RB Chuba Hubbard’s drop concerns
One of the biggest problems surrounding Chuba Hubbard during his rookie season was his lack of consistency in the passing game. The former fourth-round pick did well overall after generating more carries than he ever imagined in the wake of Christian McCaffrey’s injury struggles, but getting better catching out of the backfield was of critical importance this offseason.
Hubbard has his work cut out acquiring the same amount of involvement thanks to McCaffrey’s return and D’Onta Foreman joining in free agency from the Tennessee Titans. However, the Carolina Panthers will not have been all that thrilled with his contribution when targets came his way early in their final preseason contest.
Baker Mayfield looked to Hubbard a lot during the opening two drives. Unfortunately for the running back, he was credited with three drops which also included failing to hold a laser from the signal-caller that would have resulted in a big gain.
The Oklahoma State product brought in his remaining three targets for 25 receiving yards. However, there does appear to be some concentration or confidence issues where Hubbard is concerned in the passing game.
What this means for his outlook in 2022 remains to be seen. It would be a bombshell if Hubbard didn’t make the 53-man roster, but the leash is probably shorter than ever.