Chuba Hubbard, now an NFL rookie, has taken the world by storm with his incredible talents on the football field. Beyond that, he’s working hard to pursue his Olympic dreams. The Canadian returning back for the Carolina Panthers has wowed observers with his wizardry on the gridiron. He even uses some of that time to meditate on his own background as a sprinter and long jumper. His path from an early age track and field athlete to a professional American football player shows his focus and drive.
Hubbard’s tale starts in the arctic areas of his indigenous land in Canada, where he was guided by his longtime track coach, Corrine Timmer. She saw him being raised in a household with very little money, but she saw his great promise from a young age. “And that made me personally very angry.” Timmer recalls Hubbard’s initial international track meet. It happened in Hershey, Pennsylvania, at a time when Hubbard was just nine years old. He certainly started to make his mark here. Competing for the Edmonton Olympic Track and Field Club during his elementary and junior high school years, he broke Canadian records in both the 100 and 200 meters.
As a teenage athlete, Hubbard was single-mindedly focused on excelling in their sport. After experiencing a defeat in Hershey, he made a bold declaration to Timmer:
“I’m going to the Olympics.” – Chuba Hubbard
This incredible work ethic would continue to define Hubbard’s athletic career up through college. Timmer called him “like one of my children”—a sentiment that reiterates their deep connection as he grew up learning with her. Her support for him never wavered, despite his decision to switch from track to football.
As he explained to me when he pursued the football path, ‘I love, love, love football,’ Timmer said.
Hubbard’s love for the game of football elevated him to numerous accomplishments in the National Football League. Originally selected by the Panthers as a fourth-round pick in 2021, he didn’t take long to become the offensive hub of Carolina’s offense. Immediately after Christian McCaffrey’s exit in 2022, Hubbard went from an afterthought to a focal point of the team’s offense. He proved he could be the man by rushing for a career-high 1,195 yards in 2024.
Hubbard had a phenomenal game last week against the New York Giants in Germany. He went on to record a career-high 153 rushing yards in the upset overtime win. Then his season took a turn he certainly didn’t expect. After rushing for 152 yards and two touchdowns in his final game on Dec. 18, he was moved to injured reserve because of a mid-calf strain.
Hubbard has continued to work diligently, collaborating with a Panthers assistant coach to hone his skills and improve his game. He aims not only to help the Panthers end their streak of seven consecutive losing seasons but to make a playoff run.
In November 2024, Hubbard then signed a new four-year, $33.2 million contract—ensuring his long-term place on the team. Yet his focus extends well beyond the football field. Next, he’s aiming to make the Canadian Olympic flag football team for the 2028 Summer Olympics!
Hubbard’s unwavering confidence resonates throughout his career. He believes in his ability to succeed both on the gridiron and potentially on the Olympic stage, stating:
“Hell yeah! I don’t know the process or anything, but I plan to still be in this league and thrive in 2028. So, if they want me to become a part of it, it would be an honor.” – Chuba Hubbard
Dave Canales, Hubbard’s head coach, understood how important he was to their success. He noted that Hubbard raises the level of other runners and the rest of the offense in practice with his competitive daily demeanor.
“I’ll never lose. I’m going to be great in everything I do.” – Chuba Hubbard
As Chuba Hubbard continues to evolve as an athlete, both in the NFL and potentially as an Olympic competitor, he remains focused on his goals. His story is a testament to the pursuit of greatness and a lifelong aspiration that extends far past the gridiron.
“He sets a standard for [the running back] room and certainly for the offense, even in the walk-throughs.” – Dave Canales
As Chuba Hubbard continues to evolve as an athlete, both in the NFL and potentially as an Olympic competitor, he remains focused on his goals. His journey reflects a commitment to excellence and an enduring dream that stretches beyond professional football.
Leave a Reply