Panthers Place Star Playmaker on IR With Eyes Set on 2025

The Carolina Panthers may not have won as many games as their fans had hoped for, as they once again sit at the bottom of the NFC South with a 4-11 record. However, they already doubled their win total from a season ago and have shown flashes in the second half of the season. Dave Canales has earned himself a second season in charge and Bryce Young has shown that he could potentially be a starting-caliber QB in this league.

Perhaps the brightest spot in Carolina, however, was Chuba Hubbard. The talented running back took a massive step forward this season, putting up 1,195 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns while adding 171 yards and a score in the passing game. He just had his best game of the season against the Cardinals on Sunday, rushing for 152 yards and two touchdowns.

Unfortunately for the Panthers, Hubbard's season is officially over. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported on Saturday morning that the fourth-year player is being placed on the IR list today with a calf and knee injury.

NFL News: Panthers RB Chuba Hubbard's Season is Over

This is certainly a disappointing development for the Panthers and Hubbard. More reps with Young under center and Hubbard in the backfield would have been beneficial for the Panthers' offense going forward.

At the same time, the Panthers are already thinking about the offseason and the 2025 campaign. There is no need to throw your best offensive player out there hobbled with nothing to play for in the final two games of the season.

Hubbard signed a four-year, $33.2 million extension during the season and will continue to be a big part of the organization going forward. Shutting him out for the season and letting him come back healthier and stronger in 2025 makes a ton of sense.

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