CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Carolina Panthers are shutting down running back Chuba Hubbard for the final two games of the season because of a calf injury, a person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press. Hubbard will be placed on injured reserve on Saturday.
The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the Panthers have not yet announced the decision, which was first reported by ESPN.
Hubbard was limited in practice on Friday with a knee injury and was listed as questionable to play Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. It’s unclear exactly when the calf injury became an issue.
Hubbard ran for 1,195 yards — the fourth-most in franchise history — and 10 touchdowns this season.
He becomes the third Panthers running back to be placed on injured reserve this season, joining Miles Sanders and rookie Jonathan Brooks.
The move likely means Mike Boone will start Sunday against Tampa Bay, with Raheem Blackshear expected to see reps as well.
Hubbard finished his season last week by running for 152 yards and two touchdowns, including a 21-yard score in overtime as the Panthers beat the Arizona Cardinals 36-30.
He also caught 43 passes for 171 yards and a touchdown this season.
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