Main Photo: Brian Fluharty Imagn Images

Rico Dowdle, Chuba Hubbard Usage Revealed For Panthers-Jets

Originally posted on Last Word On Sports
By David Latham | Last updated Oct 19, 2025 9:03 AM ET

The Carolina Panthers have a good problem on their hands, as Rico Dowdle and Chuba Hubbard are both set to play against the New York Jets, and both players are starting-caliber running backs. Hubbard began the season as the team’s unquestioned starter and did well with the role, but missed the last two weeks to injury.

In his absence, Rico Dowdle put together two of the best rushing performances by any back in the league. He put up 206 yards and one touchdown against the Miami Dolphins in Week 5 and followed that up with another dominant 183-yard performance against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 6. These may be the two worst defenses in the league, but it’s hard to ignore that type of production.

With Chuba Hubbard now healthy, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports the Panthers have studied two-headed backfields to understand how to properly utilize their talented running backs.

Oct 12, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle (5) runs with the ball while being tackled by Dallas Cowboys linebacker Shemar James (50) during the second half at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cory Knowlton-Imagn Images

Rico Dowdle, Chuba Hubbard Will Split Touches For Panthers

While Dowdle and Hubbard will both receive a decent chunk of work in Week 7, head coach Dave Canales did not say which player will officially start. It likely won’t matter in the grand scheme of things, as Schefter’s article notes that “Carolina needs both backs to buy in to their rotation, with the understanding that it’s for the betterment of the team.” Chances are, Carolina will rotate the backs frequently and keep the duo as fresh as possible throughout the season. At 3-3, the Panthers are in the thick of the playoff race for the first time since they almost won the NFC South in 2022.

This usage might be bad news for Rico Dowdle and Chuba Hubbard fantasy football owners, but it’s smart for the Panthers. Both players should find success throughout the season and help power this offense against a weak Jets squad.

This article first appeared on Last Word On Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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