Sam Hubbard #94 of the Cincinnati Bengals
Sam Hubbard Announces Surprise Retirement at 29
The NFL offseason always brings its fair share of unexpected headlines, but few could have anticipated the sudden retirement of Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Sam Hubbard. The former Ohio State Buckeyes standout announced that he is stepping away from football at just 29 years old, marking the end of a journey that saw him excel at both the collegiate and professional levels.
A Buckeye Through and Through
Hubbard first made a name for himself at Ohio State, where he played from 2014 to 2017. A key contributor on the Buckeyes’ defensive line, he earned All-Big Ten honors and helped the team maintain its reputation as a defensive powerhouse. His production and versatility made him an intriguing prospect, leading to his selection by the Bengals in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft.
A Homegrown Star for the Bengals
Hubbard’s story was one that seemed straight out of a Hollywood script. Born and raised in Cincinnati, he went from starring at Ohio State to playing for his hometown Bengals, carving out a reputation as a reliable defensive presence. Over the course of his six-year career, Hubbard became a key figure on the Bengals’ defense, consistently delivering strong performances. His impact extended beyond the stat sheet, as he became a locker-room leader and fan favorite.
A Playoff Moment for the Ages
While Hubbard’s career may not have reached Hall of Fame status like Bengals legend Anthony Muñoz, he cemented his legacy with one of the most unforgettable moments in franchise history. During the 2022 AFC Wild Card Round against the Baltimore Ravens, Hubbard delivered a play for the ages—a 98-yard fumble return for a touchdown, the longest in NFL playoff history. The stunning scoop-and-score shifted the momentum in Cincinnati’s favor and remains one of the most iconic plays in Bengals history.
Injury Concerns and a Sudden Decision
Hubbard’s retirement comes as a shock, particularly given that there were no indications of him losing his starting role or being released. However, a knee injury suffered in Week 15 of the 2023 season may have played a larger role in his decision than initially expected. Though the specifics remain undisclosed, the injury could have accelerated his decision to walk away from the game.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Despite stepping away earlier than many anticipated, Hubbard leaves behind an impressive legacy. He finishes his Bengals tenure ranked third on the franchise’s all-time sacks list, a testament to his consistency and tenacity as a pass rusher. Beyond the numbers, his impact on the team and city of Cincinnati will not be forgotten.
For Ohio State and Bengals fans alike, Hubbard’s journey from high school football in Cincinnati to Buckeye stardom and finally to being a key figure for his hometown NFL team was something special. While his playing days may be over, his contributions to football in the state of Ohio will always be remembered.
