In an emotional post to his social media, seven-year veteran defensive end for the Cincinnati Bengals, Sam Hubbard, has announced his retirement from the NFL. Over a seven-year NFL career, Hubbard made 104 appearances for the Bengals, starting 88.
Sam Hubbard Retires From the NFL
A product of Cincinnati’s Archbishop Moeller High School and then Ohio State University, it was only right that Hubbard was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals. Drafted 77th overall in 2018, Hubbard would go on to become a firm favorite with Bengals fans for his achievements both on and off the field.
The Sam Hubbard Foundation was formed during the COVID-19 pandemic and does inspiring work to “fight food insecurity across the Cincinnati community.” Hubbard’s community work, through his foundation, have seen the defensive standout nominated twice for the prestigious Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, something Hubbard proclaims to be his proudest accomplishment.
On the field, Hubbard was a problem for opposing quarterbacks. His 98 quarterback hits and 38.5 sacks place him fifth and 11th respectively in Bengals history (sack records since 1982).
To: The Cincinnati Kid 🧡
Thank you, @Sam_Hubbard_ pic.twitter.com/vBfPvUeVR3
— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) March 5, 2025
In his farewell post, Hubbard thanked the Bengals fans, the organization, and the NFL.
“I want to send a sincere thank you to my teammates, trainers, coaches, support staff, the Bengals ownership, and the NFL for everything you have done for me. I could not have done any of this alone.
To the fans – Who Dey Nation – I thank you the most; you inspired me. From the years of struggle and adversity to Super Bowl LVI, you never stopped believing. I hope I made you proud.
To play my entire career in one uniform is incredibly special to me, and I am a Bengal for life, always have been and always will be.”
— Sam Hubbard (@Sam_Hubbard_) March 5, 2025
How Do the Bengals Move On From Hubbard
While players and fans react to the news of Hubbard’s retirement, the organization will need to address the Hubbard-shaped void on their roster, and how to fill it. The likes of Josh Sweat and Chase Young are slated to hit free agency, and both players rank in PFSN’s Top 100 2025 Free Agents, at number three and 26 respectively.
The Bengals could also replace Hubbard in the NFL Draft. PFSN’s Seven-Round Mock Draft has them taking standout edge-rusher Shemar Stewart from Texas A&M on day one in Green Bay.
“Shemar Stewart is essentially a supersized defensive end, possessing prototypical length and a powerful frame that carries nearly 290 pounds very well.
That frame, combined with his elite size-adjusted athleticism and tenacious playing style, should see him selected in Round 1 come April.”
However, the Bengals decide to move on, Hubbard’s dedication to the team and the city of Cincinnati won’t be forgotten any time soon.