Heartbreaking: Carolina panthers key player announces departure leaving with…..

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Almost since the day Chuba Hubbard arrived in Carolina, it seems as if the Panthers have been trying to find a better alternative at running back.

And the more Hubbard plays, the more he continues to prove he has what it takes to be a productive, every-down back.

The Canadian-born Hubbard has been one of the league’s top running backs this season despite playing on one of its worst teams. He is averaging more than 100 yards per game on the ground over the last four weeks and better than 6 yards per carry over the last five.

For a team that frequently has been forced to abandon the running game after falling behind — Carolina’s 203 points allowed are the most in the league — limiting his opportunities, that’s saying something.

Hubbard’s 485 yards rushing rank third in the NFL behind Baltimore’s Derrick Henry and San Francisco’s Jordan Mason. His pass blocking has improved and so has his receiving ability. He has caught 22 of the 24 passes thrown his way this season for 93 yards and a touchdown.

“I pride myself on being a complete back,” Hubbard said.

The 25-year-old Hubbard said he’s motivated by the intrinsic need to support his family, his love of the game and the desire to go down as one of the best running backs in NFL history.