Carolina Panthers' running back Chuba Hubbard's season has come to an unfortunate end as he has been placed on injured reserve due to a strained calf. This decision was made after Hubbard, who was the team's leading rusher, complained of pain following limited practice on Friday due to a knee injury. An MRI revealed a grade two calf strain, forcing him to sit out the remainder of the season.
Hubbard had an impressive season, rushing for 1,195 yards and scoring 10 touchdowns, ranking him sixth in the league in rushing yards. His performance included a standout game last week against the Arizona Cardinals, where he ran for 152 yards and two touchdowns, earning him the NFC offensive player of the week title.
This unfortunate development adds Hubbard to the list of Panthers running backs on injured reserve this season, alongside Miles Sanders and rookie Jonathan Brooks. With Hubbard out, the Panthers are expected to turn to Mike Boone as the starting running back for their upcoming game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, with Raheem Blackshear also likely to see playing time.
Despite his injury, Hubbard also contributed in the passing game, catching 43 passes for 171 yards and a touchdown this season. His absence will undoubtedly be felt by the Panthers as they navigate the remainder of their season without their star running back.
This season has been challenging for the Panthers in terms of injuries to key players, particularly in the running back position. However, the team will need to regroup and adjust their game plan as they face the Buccaneers and other opponents in the coming weeks.
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