Rumors surrounding the Detroit Lions' backfield continue to intensify after the team traded running back David Montgomery to the Houston Texans earlier this offseason. As Detroit looks to rebound from a disappointing 2025 campaign that fell well below expectations, a new name has emerged in speculation circles. According to FanSided's Jake Beckman, the Lions could explore a move for Chuba Hubbard of the Carolina Panthers. Hubbard is entering the middle years of a reported $33.2 million deal, and the idea of pairing him with Jahmyr Gibbs has quickly become one of the most discussed roster possibilities around Detroit.
Which Teams Are Interested in Chuba Hubbard?
Currently, the Lions are generating the most noise regarding a potential trade for Chuba Hubbard. The fit makes sense on paper. Detroit's offense has relied heavily on a two-back system, and with Montgomery gone, Jahmyr Gibbs loses the complementary piece that made that backfield highly effective last season. Hubbard, at 26 years old, meets the criteria Detroit is seeking. He is young, proven over a full season, and capable in both the run and pass game. If head coach Dan Campbell wants to maintain a high-level offense heading into 2026, adding a back who has rushed for over 1,100 yards in a season is a solid start. Beyond Detroit, no other teams have been publicly linked to Hubbard. However, with running back value rising across the league this offseason, it would not be surprising to see other contenders show interest if this rumor gains momentum.
What Insiders Are Saying About the Trade Rumors
FanSided's Jake Beckman was the one who introduced this idea into the conversation. He made the case directly: 'If they wanted to get greedy and make sure they really crushed everything, they could try to get Chuba Hubbard from Carolina.' However, Beckman was not entirely optimistic. He added: 'The problem with that is usable running backs are at a premium right now, and the price for a guy like Hubbard is going to be a little bit higher than it was a month ago.' This is the crux of the issue. This is not a rumor coming from beat reporters or sources inside either organization. It is more of an analytical suggestion—smart, but speculative. There is no indication that Carolina has fielded calls or that Detroit has made a formal inquiry. Until that changes, this remains firmly in the 'what if' category.
Contract Details and Salary Cap Implications
The $33.2 million figure attached to Hubbard reflects his overall contract value, not just a single-year cap number. That kind of commitment for a running back who posted just 511 rushing yards in 2025 would raise eyebrows around the league. His dip in production last season is significant. Hubbard was outstanding in 2024, with 1,195 rushing yards, 10 touchdowns, and an average of 4.8 yards per carry on 250 attempts. However, 2025 was a step back. He played 15 games, carrying the ball 134 times for 511 yards and one score. That trajectory does not make teams eager to part with significant draft capital and salary. No buyout or no-trade clause details have been made public, but given that he is projected to be Carolina's starter in 2026, the Panthers would need strong compensation to even consider listening.
How the Trade Could Impact Both Teams
For Detroit, the upside is clear. Hubbard alongside Gibbs would give the Lions one of the most dangerous backfield duos in the NFC. Their offense has always thrived on physicality and balance, and replacing Montgomery's workload with someone of Hubbard's caliber maintains that identity. It also strengthens their Super Bowl window, which Dan Campbell believes is still open despite missing the playoffs last season. For Carolina, the logic is harder to see. The Panthers are in a rebuilding phase, but trading your projected starting running back before the season begins creates a hole they may not be able to fill. Unless Detroit is willing to part with a meaningful pick—a second-rounder or better—this deal does not move the needle for Carolina. The more realistic outcome is that Detroit looks toward a cheaper, more available option. Hubbard is a reasonable target in theory, but the Panthers' unwillingness to deal makes this trade difficult to pull off.
FAQs
Is Chuba Hubbard getting traded?
There is no confirmed trade at this point. The idea was floated by a FanSided analyst, but no official talks have been reported between the Lions and Panthers.
Which team is most likely to acquire Hubbard?
Detroit is the only team publicly connected to him at the moment, though that could change if the rumor gains traction.
Why would the Lions want to trade for Hubbard?
Detroit traded David Montgomery to Houston this offseason. With Jahmyr Gibbs now the lone proven back on the roster, the Lions are exploring options to rebuild depth and maintain their two-back offensive system.
When is the NFL trade deadline?
The 2026 NFL trade deadline falls on November 4, 2026, at 4 PM ET.
What is Hubbard's current contract situation?
Hubbard is under contract with the Panthers and is projected to be their starting running back heading into the 2026 season. His reported trade value sits around $33.2 million.
