Set to reclaim key backfield role
Hubbard approaches training camp in a position to secure the lead role in Carolina's 2026 backfield, Mike Kaye of the Charlotte Observer reports.
With last year's rushing leader Rico Dowdle now with the Steelers, Hubbard -- who looked good this spring -- per Kaye, should have an opportunity to bounce back from a forgettable 2025 campaign in which injuries contributed to him logging just 511 yards (on 134 carries) in 15 regular-season contests after racking up 1,195 rushing yards (on 250 carries) in 2024. Also in the mix for backfield work this season will be Jonathon Brooks -- who is rebounding from back-to-back ACL surgeries -- as well as 2025 fourth-rounder Trevor Etienne, with AJ Dillon, Anthony Tyus and Miles Davis also on hand. Assuming Hubbard can avoid the injury bug, he figures to see steady volume out of the gate this coming season, but if Brooks is able to re-prove his health he could cut into Hubbard's workload down the road.
More Carolina Panthers Fantasy Football News
Darren Waller
Not expected to play in preseason finale
Coach Dave Canales indicated that Waller is not expected to suit up for Friday's preseason finale against the Texans, Anthony Rizzuti of USA Today reports.
Xavier Legette
Remains in walking boot
Legette (ankle) will remain in a walking boot on his foot until Thursday, Steve Reed of the Associated Press reports.
Jonathon Brooks
Possible committee with Hubbard's return
Coach Dave Canales told reporters Monday that the Panthers will go with a committee Week 1 with Brooks and Chuba Hubbard (hamstring), provided that Hubbard is healthy, per Joe Person of the Athletic.
Chuba Hubbard
Remains on track for Week 1
Hubbard (hamstring) remains on track for Week 1, according to Steve Reed of the Associated Press.
Tommy Tremble
Logs two catches in preseason win
Tremble caught both of his targets for 20 yards during the Panthers' 34-17 win over the Jaguars in Friday's preseason game.
Ryan Fitzgerald
Makes six kicks Friday
Fitzgerald converted two of three field-goal attempts while making all four PATs in Friday night's preseason game against the Jaguars.
Xavier Legette
Dealing with ankle injury
Legette has his right foot in a boot due to an ankle injury that he sustained during Wednesday's joint practice with the Jaguars, Mike Kaye of ESPN.com reports.
John Metchie III
Makes case for WR3 spot
Metchie caught six of seven targets for a game-high 77 yards in Friday's 34-17 preseason win over the Jaguars.
Jalen Coker
Just one catch in preseason win
Coker caught his only target for four yards in Friday's 34-17 preseason win over the Jaguars.
Tetairoa McMillan
Two grabs against Jags on Friday
McMillan caught both his targets for 25 yards in Friday's 34-17 preseason win over the Jaguars.