Carolina Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard (30) runs with the ball
Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
The Carolina Panthers should be used to training camp injuries at this point. Carolina lost Chris Brazzell II and Nic Scourton to season-ending injuries earlier in camp. One more Panthers player just picked up an injury, but it does not sound quite as serious this time.
Panthers head coach Dave Canales said that running back Chuba Hubbard is considered week-to-week with a hamstring injury, per The Athletic's Joe Person.
Canales added that he is “very confident” that Hubbard will be ready for Week 1 against the Bears. He expects Hubbard will return to practice well in advance of that matchup.
In the meantime, Canales noted that Jonathon Brooks will start at running back against the Bills on Saturday. Trevor Etienne and A.J. Dillion will also reportedly be in the mix.
The Panthers plan for Hubbard and Brooks to share the backfield during the 2026 season. Now that Hubbard is nursing an injury, Brooks will have plenty of opportunities to establish himself. That is hugely important after Brooks' multiple ACL injuries have plagued his career.
Carolina is clearly excited about Brooks and what he could bring on offense. But Hubbard should not be ignored.
Hubbard logged 134 carries for 511 rushing yards and one touchdown during the 2025 season. He became less important after Rico Dowdle emerged as the team's leading rusher. Regardless, Hubbard still managed a respectable 3.8 yards per carry in a supporting role.
It will be interesting to see if Hubbard can get back to his 2024 form this fall. Remember, he rumbled for 1,195 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns that year on an ascending Panthers team.
The Panthers invested heavily in their defense this offseason, adding Jaelan Phillips and Devin Lloyd among others. If that unit can play better, Hubbard and Brooks may have more opportunities in 2026. They could particularly clean up during garbage time if Carolina can get some early leads.
Panthers fans should keep an eye on Hubbard's status in the weeks leading up to the season opener.