Panthers put 1,000-yard running back Chuba Hubbard on injured reserve for the last two games due to a calf strain

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Chuba Hubbard’s season has officially come to an end.

The Panthers have placed their top running back on injured reserve following a calf strain.

Hubbard, who was dealing with a knee issue, was limited during Friday’s practice and was marked as questionable for Sunday’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Post-practice, he expressed discomfort which led to an MRI, confirming he has a grade two calf strain, as reported by the team.

This season, Hubbard made a significant impact, rushing for a total of 1,195 yards, placing him fourth on the franchise’s all-time list, along with scoring 10 touchdowns.

He ranks sixth in rushing yards across the league, solidifying his status as a key player this year.

With Hubbard’s injury, he becomes the third Panthers running back to be placed on IR this season, joining Miles Sanders and rookie Jonathan Brooks on that list.

As a result of this move, Mike Boone is slated to start in Sunday’s matchup against Tampa Bay, while Raheem Blackshear is anticipated to see some playing time as well.

Hubbard concluded his season last week with an impressive performance, accumulating 152 yards and two touchdowns, which included a 21-yard touchdown run in overtime that helped the Panthers secure a win against the Arizona Cardinals, 36-30.

For his standout performance, he was named the NFC Offensive Player of the Week.

In addition to his rushing accomplishments, Hubbard also made contributions in the passing game, catching 43 passes for 171 yards and a touchdown throughout the season.

This loss will undoubtedly affect the Panthers as they navigate the final stretch of the season without one of their leading offensive players.