Who Should I Start? Chuba Hubbard or Kenneth Walker III

Sunday, February 1, 11:59 AM

Carolina Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard's RB15 finish in 2024 made him a popular early-to-mid-round pick in 2025, but after missing time and ceding primary early down work to a more efficient Rico Dowdle upon his return, he finished as the RB40. Dowdle, who was on a one-year deal, has been vocal about wanting to be featured as a lead back, but whether he returns to Carolina or not, it's unlikely that Hubbard will again see the type of volume that made him a fantasy league-winner in 2024. Hubbard's usage in the passing game has ranked among the least efficient in the league over his five-year career, and his near-300 touches in 2024 came largely as a result of the unexpected absence of second-round pick Jonathon Brooks, who could be back to fight for a starting role in 2026. Regardless of who Hubbard finds himself sharing a backfield with next season, the 27-year-old has likely seen the last of his bell-cow duties.

Thursday, February 12, 4:17 PM

NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reports that the Seattle Seahawks could use the franchise or transition tag on impending free-agent running back Kenneth Walker III this offseason, even though the franchise tag would pay Walker around $14 million in 2026. The 25-year-old went Beast Mode in Seattle's three postseason games this year, carrying the ball 65 times for 313 yards and four touchdowns while adding nine catches for an additional 104 yards. The former second-rounder had 27 carries for 135 yards in the Super Bowl LX win over the New England Patriots and was named MVP. Walker made himself a lot of money for the 2026 season with his playoff exploits. It sounds like the Seahawks want to keep him around. He has been solid in his four years with Seattle, but lower-body injuries have been an issue. With Zach Charbonnet (knee) returning in 2026, there will be bust potential for Walker coming off the high of his postseason performance.