Chuba Hubbard’s journey from a fourth-round draft pick to a cornerstone of the Carolina Panthers has been nothing short of impressive. Now, the standout running back will step into a new spotlight—this time not on the field, but at the podium. The Panthers revealed on Thursday that Hubbard will announce the team’s selections on Day 2 of the 2025 NFL Draft, covering Rounds 2 and 3.
It’s a fitting honor for a player who once flew under the radar coming out of Oklahoma State. Hubbard has now emerged as a vital part of Carolina’s offense. He delivered a career-best performance in 2024, rushing for 1,195 yards and 10 touchdowns in 15 games, placing him among the top backs in the NFC. He also caught 43 passes, further showcasing his versatility and reliability during a difficult five-win season.
Hubbard embraced the news with enthusiasm, even joking on social media, “Who y’all want me to pick?”—a lighthearted question that drew plenty of fan engagement. While he won’t be making the actual draft decisions, his selection to announce the picks speaks volumes about his leadership and respect within the organization.
This moment comes at a crucial time for Carolina. Despite last season’s struggles, the NFC South remains wide open. With young quarterback Bryce Young still developing and Hubbard signed through 2028 with a $33.2 million extension, a strong draft could quickly change the team’s direction. Hubbard, who has learned the value of hard work and growth, will be there to welcome the new additions to the Panthers.
So as Panthers fans tune into Day 2 of the draft, it’s not just about who gets picked—but also about the team leader calling out those names. Chuba Hubbard’s role is more than ceremonial—it symbolizes the team’s future taking shape.