The NFL season is in full swing. As happens every year, injuries are rearing their ugly heads. As fantasy football managers prepare to set Week 4 lineups, it’s important to stay informed on the latest injury news.
Carolina Panthers RB Chuba Hubbard didn’t practice fully the entire week due to an injury. What is his current status and outlook for this week?
Is Chuba Hubbard Playing Week 4?
The Panthers RB1 did not appear on Wednesday’s practice report at all and was fully healthy with no injury designation. His inclusion in Thursday’s report with a calf injury suggests that this issue occurred during Thursday’s practice session.
The midweek addition to the injury report after being fully healthy on Wednesday is concerning, as it indicates something happened during practice rather than existing soreness being managed. However, the fact that Hubbard was able to practice on Friday, even in a limited capacity, bodes well for his chances of playing against Indianapolis.
Hubbard’s practice progression throughout the week shows improvement from Thursday’s initial concern to Friday’s limited participation. His ability to return to practice, albeit with restrictions, demonstrates that the calf issue isn’t severe enough to sideline him completely.
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The Panthers ultimately designated Hubbard questionable on the final injury report, reflecting both the legitimate nature of the calf concern and the team’s cautious optimism about his availability.
If Hubbard cannot go against Indianapolis, Rico Dowdle would serve as the lead back with Trevor Etienne mixing in to play the role Dowdle currently occupies as the change-of-pace option. Given Carolina’s commitment to establishing a ground game, Dowdle would immediately become a viable RB2 option in this scenario.
For now, though, fantasy managers should proceed as if Hubbard will play. We will get official confirmation when inactives are announced 90 minutes before kickoff.
Hubbard’s Fantasy Football Outlook
Hubbard was great last season, but, as a runner, it’s been tough to replicate that success. Through three weeks, his yards per carry are down more than a full yard from 2021, and his next carry of 15-plus yards will be his first.
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The key to his value lies in the passing game. He cleared 30 yards and scored through the air in the first two weeks, but his three targets netted just three yards on Sunday against the Falcons, which spelled trouble for his managers.
If you’re counting on top-20 production out of Hubbard this week, that’s what you’re banking on. The Patriots are allowing exactly zero yards per carry before contact to running backs this season (second-best) and will likely crowd the line of scrimmage in an effort to make QB Bryce Young beat them.
I’m worried about the rushing efficiency, but four to six targets feel likely, and if he can turn that into at least six fantasy points, I think you’re fine starting Hubbard wherever you have him.
— Kyle Soppe, PFSN Fantasy Analyst
