CINCINNATI — On Wednesday, Sam Hubbard, a key figure on the Cincinnati Bengals’ defensive line, officially announced his retirement from professional football. Born and bred in Cincinnati, Hubbard spent seven highly impactful seasons with the Bengals. Drafted in the third round back in 2018, he contributed significantly to the team’s resurgence, including helping them make a dramatic return to the Super Bowl during the 2021 season. Over his career, he accumulated an impressive 38 1/2 sacks across 104 games.
Affectionately dubbed “The Cincinnati Kid” by local fans, Hubbard endured a serious knee injury last December when he tore a ligament while making an athletic touchdown catch against Tennessee. This injury sidelined him for the Bengals’ last three games of that season. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Hubbard, now 29, reflected on his playing years. “In my heart, I know that I gave this game, this team, and this city everything that I had,” he stated. “That is why today, with great pride, I am announcing that I am moving on from my playing career in the NFL and entering the next chapter of my life.”
Hubbard was central to several unforgettable moments in Bengals history. A highlight includes his notable scoop-and-score touchdown during the fourth quarter against Baltimore in the 2022 playoffs, which clinched the victory for Cincinnati. Moreover, his performance in the AFC Championship game in January 2022 was pivotal. Facing off against the heavily favored Kansas City Chiefs, Hubbard recorded two crucial sacks on Patrick Mahomes in the waning moments of regulation, paving the way for the Bengals’ overtime win which secured their first Super Bowl appearance in over three decades.
Reflecting on his journey, Hubbard mentioned, “From a draft pick to a starter, a 4x captain, and a guy who made a few plays along the way, we accomplished things that will never be forgotten.” He was also recognized off the field as a two-time nominee for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award. Looking ahead, Hubbard plans to deepen his involvement with his foundation, which aims to improve access to food, education, and healthy lifestyles for Cincinnati residents.
Expressing his attachment to the Bengals, Hubbard shared, “To play my entire career in one uniform is incredibly special to me, and I am a Bengal for life, always have been and always will be.”
