Fansided

Every NFL team’s most surprising cut candidate

By Nick Villano

Chase Claypool #10 of the Chicago Bears runs to the line of scrimmage in the first quarter of a game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on January 01, 2023 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Mike Mulholland/Getty Images)
Chase Claypool #10 of the Chicago Bears runs to the line of scrimmage in the first quarter of a game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on January 01, 2023 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Mike Mulholland/Getty Images) /
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Carolina Panthers
Carolina Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard (30): Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports /

Carolina Panthers — Chuba Hubbard

We swear it is not all running backs. This, however, makes a lot of sense from the “this could happen” side and the “legitimate surprise” aspect. The Carolina Panthers traded Christian McCaffrey last season, opening the door for another running back to take his place. Chuba Hubbard was afforded a chance to take over the role.

The former top college running back in the country just hasn’t translated to the NFL. That’s why the Panthers allowed D’Onta Foreman to take the starter role at the end of the season. He was quite good, but he left in free agency. Now, the Panthers are looking at another new starter.

They just gave Miles Sanders a big contract to be their new starter. They did that because they don’t trust Hubbard to be a starting-caliber running back. With that said, it’s hard to argue that Hubbard can survive roster cuts.

On top of all that, this is a brand new regime that is looking at Hubbard with new eyes. There has to be something in there for the Panthers to think he can still be a good back. He did average 4.9 yards per carry last season. However, Hubbard must show he can be a serviceable backup in training camp, or he will be looking for a new home.

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