Charlotte, NC, October 3, 2025
News Summary
Carolina Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard missed his second consecutive day of practice due to a calf injury that worsened after a previous game. Head coach Dave Canales will provide an update on Hubbard’s status during the upcoming injury report. If unable to play, Rico Dowdle is expected to start in his place, with rookie Trevor Etienne likely getting playing time. The Panthers have also promoted running back DeeJay Dallas from the practice squad to add depth as they aim for the playoffs.
Charlotte, NC
Carolina Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard missed his second consecutive day of practice, casting uncertainty on his availability for the upcoming game against the Miami Dolphins. Head coach Dave Canales noted that Hubbard played through a calf injury in the previous game against New England, but he emerged from that game in worse condition.
Canales is scheduled to address reporters regarding Hubbard’s status when the injury report is released on Friday. Should Hubbard be unable to play, Rico Dowdle is expected to start and handle most of the responsibilities in the Panthers’ backfield. Additionally, rookie Trevor Etienne is likely to receive playing time if Hubbard is ruled out.
To add depth at the running back position, the Panthers have promoted running back DeeJay Dallas from the practice squad. Hubbard currently leads the Panthers with 217 rushing yards this season and has two touchdown receptions. Last season, he accumulated 1,195 rushing yards and scored 10 rushing touchdowns.
Dowdle, who ran for a career-high 1,079 yards and two touchdowns last season for the Dallas Cowboys, has recorded 28 carries for 83 yards and one touchdown this season in a backup role. The Panthers were without four players at Thursday’s practice: Chuba Hubbard (calf), Tershawn Wharton (toe), Chau Smith-Wade (chest), and Ja’Tavion Sanders (ankle). Outside linebacker D.J. Wonnum (hip) was limited in practice but participated on a limited basis.
In their previous week’s injury report, Hubbard was listed as questionable but still played in the game. The Panthers opened practice that week with a walk-through, and five players were initially listed as not practicing. The injury report indicated that Tershawn Wharton has been out for three consecutive days and would not be available for the upcoming game against the Dolphins.
Left tackle Ikem Ekwonu was limited in Friday’s practice but was back in uniform and practicing on Wednesday. The Panthers’ injury issues include defensive tackle Bobby Brown III, who was also held out on Thursday along with Wharton and Patrick Jones II. Hubbard’s participation and health are critical, as the Panthers aim to make the playoffs for the first time since 2017.
Hubbard has expressed confidence in the team’s ability to contend for a Super Bowl, indicating it is the main goal for the season.
Injury Status Recap
Current injuries affecting the team include:
- Chuba Hubbard (calf) – Missed practice
- Tershawn Wharton (toe) – Missed practice
- Chau Smith-Wade (chest) – Missed practice
- Ja’Tavion Sanders (ankle) – Missed practice
- D.J. Wonnum (hip) – Limited practice
- Ikem Ekwonu – Limited practice
- Bobby Brown III – Missed practice
Key Player Statistics
| Player | Rushing Yards (2023) | Touchdowns (2023) | Previous Season Rushing Yards | Previous Season Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chuba Hubbard | 217 | 2 | 1,195 | 10 |
| Rico Dowdle | 83 | 1 | 1,079 | 2 |
FAQ
Why did Chuba Hubbard miss practice?
Chuba Hubbard missed his second consecutive day of practice due to a calf injury that worsened after the previous game against New England.
Who will start if Chuba Hubbard can’t play?
If Chuba Hubbard is unable to play, Rico Dowdle is expected to start and handle most of the responsibilities in the Panthers’ backfield.
How are the Panthers preparing for the upcoming game?
The Panthers have promoted running back DeeJay Dallas from the practice squad and are closely monitoring the health and participation of critical players ahead of the game against the Miami Dolphins.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Panthers Gear Up for Season Opener Against Jaguars
Miami’s Fantasy Football Showdown: Key Players and Strategies for Week 12
Additional Resources
- Spectrum Local News
- Wikipedia: Carolina Panthers
- New York Times Athletic
- Google Search: Chuba Hubbard injury news
- Carolina Panthers Official Site
- Google Scholar: Chuba Hubbard
- Sports Illustrated
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chuba Hubbard
- Panthers Wire
- Google News: Carolina Panthers injury report
Author: HERE Charlotte
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