STILLWATER – Oklahoma State running back Chuba Hubbard is now officially a Carolina Panther running back. The Panthers announced the two had agreed to terms on Hubbard’s four-year rookie contract, the first of the Carolina rookies, and the first rookie deal to be announced by a team.
While the details have yet to be announced, the contract value of Hubbard’s draft spot is $4,193,176 with a projected signing bonus of just over $700,000.
Hubbard was drafted in the fourth round with the 126th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. While he had a down 2020 season which was marred by injuries, finishing with 625 yards and five touchdowns on 133 carries, his 2019 season was one of the best in program history. He finished with 2,094 yards and 21 touchdowns on 328 carries. Former Baylor coach, and current Panther head coach, Matt Rhule, saw plenty of Hubbard in Stillwater in the 2019 season as he rushed for 171 yards and two touchdowns.
In a rather funny exchange during their draft call, Rhule explained to Hubbard that Rhule’s wife Julie sent a text asking that the Panthers please draft Hubbard during the fourth round.
Hubbard finished his Oklahoma State career with 3,495 rushing yards and 33 touchdowns on 585 carries, which is good enough for eight all-time in program history.