The Carolina Panthers have announced that they’ve extended running back Chuba Hubbard’s contract for four years, securing him through until 2028.
Reports say the contract is worth $33 million, with the potential to reach $37.2 million, including $15 million in fully guaranteed money.
The extension is part of general manager Dan Morgan’s plan to retain essential players as he aims to rebuild the team following six consecutive losing seasons.
Less than a day before Hubbard’s new contract, the Panthers also elevated their 2024 second-round pick, Jonathon Brooks, to the 53-man roster.
There had been speculation that Brooks, once fully recovered from his ACL surgery, might eventually replace Hubbard.
However, the contract signals head coach Dave Canales’ commitment to a balanced running game with multiple backs.
Pen to paper pic.twitter.com/Aas1WbwV0d
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) November 7, 2024
Hubbard’s performance this season underscores his value, ranking fifth in the NFL in rushing yards with 665, and 10th in rushing first downs with 33.
He’s also scored six touchdowns and sits sixth on Carolina’s all-time rushing list with 2,645 yards. Selected in the fourth round of the 2021 draft, Hubbard would have been a free agent after this season.
Panthers offensive coordinator Brad Idzik praised Hubbard, saying: “He embodies a lot of what we want to do here, culturally and on the offensive side.
“We just see another good back that we can add to the fold, and Chuba is going to do a great job of leading the charge.”
With the Panthers currently at 2-7 as they head to face the New York Giants in Munich, Germany, on Sunday, the team is expected to prioritise extending other core players, including cornerback Jaycee Horn, a key defensive asset.
