Hubbard's dominant performance signals a long-term reign. Future investments and strategic decisions cement his role as the Panthers' undisputed RB1.
The Carolina Panthers Have More Investment In Running Back Chuba Hubbard's Future Than Rico Dowdle.
Chuba Hubbard returned to form during the Panthers' upset win over the Los Angeles Rams. His 124 scrimmage yards — highlighted by a 35-yard touchdown reception — prompted the home fans to chant his name at Bank of America Stadium.
Even though Rico Dowdle remains ranked in the Top 10 of the NFL's rushing list, Hubbard's performance on Sunday should serve as a reminder that he will likely be the team's top running back in 2026.
This future reality is based on two decisions general manager Dan Morgan made last year.
Most prominently, the Panthers signed Hubbard to a four-year contract extension that is worth as much as $37.2 million and runs through 2028. Meanwhile, Dowdle is currently playing on a one-year, prove-it deal and will become a free agent next offseason.
Understandably, Dowdle will be looking to get paid, too. Prior to facing the Cowboys in October, where he spent the four seasons of his career, the 27-year-old Asheville, N.C., native shared that he wasn't offered an extension by Jerry Jones after his 1,000-yard rushing season in 2024.
The unfortunate reality — in a salary-capped sport — is that it isn't wise to sign multiple running backs to expensive, multi-year contracts. Years ago, this is a lesson former GM Marty Hurney learned the hard way with Jonathan Stewart and Deangelo Williams.
The second relevant decision Morgan made last year was drafting tailback Jonathan Brooks. Not only was it a valuable, second-round selection. The Panthers also moved up to take the former Texas star.
However, due to two significant knee injuries, Brooks played in just three games as as rookie and was placed on injured reserve during the offseason. A late-season ACL tear in his right knee ended his college career and he sustained a similar injury — in the same knee — in last year's Week 14 loss to the Eagles.
Rather than cut their losses with the 22-year-old Brooks, the Panthers will likely look to bring him back as Hubbard's backup in 2026. It's hard to imagine Brooks getting many carries if both Hubbard and Dowdle returned, which adds to the likelihood of Dowdle finding a new home.
So if you liked the way Hubbard looked on Sunday, get used to it. Because No. 30 isn't going away anytime soon.