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Sam Hubbard
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Sam Hubbard
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Sam Hubbard (born June 29, 1995) is an American former professional football player who was a defensive end for his entire seven-year career with the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Ohio State Buckeyes and was selected by the Bengals in the third round of the 2018 NFL draft.

Key Information

Early life

[edit]

Hubbard attended Archbishop Moeller High School in Cincinnati, Ohio.[1] Hubbard played the position of Safety in high school, and as a senior, had 109 tackles and five interceptions. He was rated as a five-star recruit by Scout.com and committed to Ohio State University to play college football.[2][3] Hubbard also played lacrosse in high school, and was at one time committed to the University of Notre Dame to play college lacrosse.[4]

College career

[edit]

Hubbard redshirted his first year at Ohio State in 2014.[5][6] As a redshirt freshman in 2015, he played in all 13 games and had 28 tackles and 6.5 sacks.[7] As a redshirt sophomore in 2016, he started all 13 games and had 46 tackles and 3.5 sacks.[8][9] Hubbard played in 14 games in 2017 as a redshirt junior and had 42 tackles along with a career high seven sacks.[10] Hubbard declared for the 2018 NFL draft on December 30, 2017.[11]

Professional career

[edit]

Pre-draft

[edit]

On December 30, 2017, Hubbard released a statement on Twitter announcing his decision to enter the 2018 NFL draft.[12] He attended the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis and completed the majority of combine drills, but opted to skip the 40-yard dash and bench press. Hubbard participated in linebacker and defensive end drills at the combine.[13] On March 22, 2018, he participated at Ohio State's pro day and performed positional drills, the 40-yard dash, 20-yard dash, and 10-yard dash. At the conclusion of the pre-draft process, Hubbard was projected to be a first or second round pick by NFL draft experts and scouts. He was ranked the third best defensive end in the draft by DraftScout.com, was ranked the fourth best defensive end by Scouts Inc., and was also ranked the fifth best edge rusher in the draft by Sports Illustrated.[14][15][16]

External videos
video icon Sam Hubbard's NFL Combine Workout
Pre-draft measurables
Height Weight Arm length Hand span 40-yard dash 10-yard split 20-yard split 20-yard shuttle Three-cone drill Vertical jump Broad jump Bench press
6 ft 5+3⁄8 in
(1.97 m) 		270 lb
(122 kg) 		33+1⁄8 in
(0.84 m) 		10 in
(0.25 m)		 4.95 s 1.69 s 2.87 s 4.32 s 6.84 s 35 in
(0.89 m)		 9 ft 8 in
(2.95 m)		 16 reps
All values from NFL Combine/Ohio State's Pro Day[17][18]

2018

[edit]

The Cincinnati Bengals selected Hubbard in the third round with the 77th overall pick in the 2018 NFL draft.[19] Hubbard was the seventh defensive end drafted in 2018.[20]

External videos
video icon Bengals draft Sam Hubbard 77th overall

On June 21, 2018, the Cincinnati Bengals signed Hubbard to a four-year, $3.61 million contract that includes a signing bonus of $929,200.[21]

On September 13, Hubbard recorded his first-career sack against the Baltimore Ravens, bringing down Joe Flacco for a loss of 11 yards in the 34–23 victory.[22] In a Week 5 victory over the Miami Dolphins, he recorded a 19-yard fumble recovery for a touchdown.[23] As a rookie, he totaled 6 sacks, 39 total tackles, nine quarterback hits, seven tackles-for-loss, two passes defensed, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery.[24]

2019

[edit]

In the Bengals' 2019 regular season opener, Hubbard recorded two sacks and a career-best 10 tackles in the 21–20 loss to the Seattle Seahawks.[25] In Week 5 against the Arizona Cardinals, Hubbard sacked rookie quarterback Kyler Murray once in the 26–23 loss.[26] In Week 17 against the Cleveland Browns, Hubbard recorded a team high six tackles and sacked Baker Mayfield 1.5 times during the 33–23 win.[27] In the 2019 season, he appeared in and started 15 games. He finished with 8.5 sacks, 76 total tackles (46 solo), three passes defended, and one forced fumble.[28]

2020

[edit]

In Week 3 against the Philadelphia Eagles, Hubbard recorded his first sack of the season on Carson Wentz during the 23–23 tie game.[29] He suffered an elbow injury in Week 5 and was placed on injured reserve on October 15, 2020.[30] He was activated on November 14, 2020.[31] He started and appeared in 13 games. He recorded two sacks, 62 total tackles (33 solo), three passes defended, and one forced fumble.[32]

2021

[edit]

On July 25, 2021, Hubbard signed a four-year, $40 million contract extension with the Bengals.[33] Hubbard had a 2.5-sack game against the Ravens in Week 7, a 41–17 victory.[34] In the 2021 season, Hubbard finished with 7.5 sacks, 62 total tackles (33 solo), three passes defended, and one forced fumble.[35]

In the fourth quarter of the AFC Championship against the Kansas City Chiefs, Hubbard strip sacked Patrick Mahomes in the red zone which forced the Chiefs to kick a field goal to tie the game and send the Bengals into overtime in the eventual 27–24 win.[36] In Super Bowl LVI, Hubbard had eight total tackles against the Los Angeles Rams in the 23–20 loss.[37]

2022

[edit]

In the 2022 season, Hubbard finished with 6.5 sacks, 60 total tackles (34 solo), three passes defended, and one forced fumble in 15 games and starts.[38]

On January 15, 2023, in the Wild Card Round against the Ravens, Hubbard scored a 98-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter off of a fumble by Tyler Huntley that was forced by Logan Wilson. This became the longest fumble return touchdown in NFL postseason history,[39] as well as the longest touchdown in Bengals playoff history, and the longest go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter in NFL playoff history.[40] It has since been nicknamed the "Fumble in the Jungle."[41] This play proved to be the deciding factor in the game, as the Bengals went on to win 24–17.[42]

2023

[edit]

During the 2023 season, Hubbard played in 15 games and had six sacks, 58 tackles, and two fumble recoveries.[43]

2024

[edit]

On December 15, 2024, in Cincinnati's game against the Tennessee Titans, Hubbard scored his first career offensive touchdown on a two–yard reception from quarterback Joe Burrow.[44] The next day, it was announced that Hubbard would miss the remainder of the season with a PCL injury.[45] He finished the 2024 season with two sacks, 41 tackles, one interception, two passes defended, and one forced fumble.[46]

Retirement

[edit]

On March 5, 2025, Hubbard announced on Instagram his retirement from the NFL, after rumors circulated that the Bengals were looking to trade him.[47] He finished his career with 398 total tackles, 55 tackles for a loss, 38.5 sacks, six forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries, 16 passes defended, one interception, and three touchdowns (two defensive and one offensive).[48]

Personal life

[edit]

In 2021, Hubbard incorporated the Sam Hubbard Foundation.[49] In recognition of his support for his community the Bengals selected him as their nominee for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award in 2021 and 2022.[50] After announcing his retirement, Hubbard married Jessica Koehler on April 12, 2025.[51][52]

Career statistics

[edit]

Regular season

[edit]
Year Team Games Tackles Fumbles Interceptions
GP GS Cmb Solo Ast Sck FF FR Yds TD PD Int Yds Avg Lng TD
2018 CIN 16 0 39 27 12 6.0 1 1 19 1 2 0 0 0 0 0
2019 CIN 15 15 76 46 30 8.5 1 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0
2020 CIN 13 13 62 33 29 2.0 1 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0
2021 CIN 16 16 62 33 29 7.5 1 2 43 0 3 0 0 0 0 0
2022 CIN 15 15 60 34 26 6.5 1 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0
2023 CIN 15 15 58 38 20 6.0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
2024 CIN 14 14 41 25 16 2.0 1 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 0
Career 104 88 398 236 162 38.5 6 5 62 1 16 1 0 0 0 0

Playoffs

[edit]
Year Team Games Tackles Fumbles Interceptions
GP GS Cmb Solo Ast Sck FF FR Yds TD PD Int Yds Avg Lng TD
2021 CIN 4 4 22 13 9 3.0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0
2022 CIN 3 3 7 4 3 1.0 0 2 98 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
Career 7 7 29 17 12 4.0 0 2 98 1 1 0 0 0 0 0

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Sam Hubbard

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Sam Hubbard (born June 29, 1995) is an American former professional football defensive end who played his entire seven-year National Football League (NFL) career with the Cincinnati Bengals. Born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, Hubbard attended Archbishop Moeller High School, where he initially focused on lacrosse before transitioning to football, and later starred at Ohio State University as a versatile lineman who began his college career at tight end before moving to defensive end. Selected by the Bengals in the third round (77th overall) of the 2018 NFL Draft, he signed a four-year rookie contract worth $3.57 million and quickly established himself as a reliable edge rusher known for his relentless motor and hometown connection. Throughout his professional tenure from 2018 to 2024, Hubbard appeared in 104 games, amassing 398 total tackles (236 solo), 38.5 sacks, six forced s, five fumble recoveries, and one interception. His breakout season came in 2021 during the Bengals' run to , where he recorded 7.5 sacks and earned praise for his pass-rushing prowess, including a pivotal sack on in the . One of his most memorable plays occurred in the 2022 Wild Card playoff victory over the , when he scooped a fumble and returned it 98 yards for a , shifting momentum in a 24-17 win and earning him the nickname "The ." In 2021, Hubbard signed a four-year, $40 million extension and continued contributing to Cincinnati's defense until announcing his retirement on March 5, 2025, at age 29, citing a desire to prioritize family and community work after fulfilling his childhood dream of playing for his hometown team. Off the field, Hubbard has been deeply involved in , founding the Sam Hubbard Foundation in 2020 to promote equitable access to food, education, and healthy lifestyles for residents. The foundation's flagship program, Hubbard’s Cupboard, partners with organizations like Crayons to Computers and to supply school essentials, healthy snacks, and hygiene products to underserved students in local schools. Additional initiatives include annual community events such as the Fowling Tournament, which raises funds through fan engagement and features Bengals players, underscoring Hubbard's commitment to giving back to the city that shaped him.

Early life

Upbringing and family

Sam Hubbard was born on June 29, 1995, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was raised by his parents, Amy and Jim Hubbard, in the Cincinnati area, who instilled a strong sense of local pride in their family. Amy Hubbard worked as a critical care nurse and later as a nursing supervisor at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, a role that highlighted her dedication to healthcare in the community. Jim and Amy recognized Sam's early passion for football, supporting his development amid the city's vibrant sports culture. The family grew up in the Montgomery neighborhood, just two streets from where Amy was raised, fostering deep roots in the area. Hubbard has a sister, Madison Hubbard, who followed in their mother's footsteps by becoming a nurse practitioner at UC Health Primary Care. This family connection to healthcare has influenced Hubbard's philanthropic efforts, including support for local medical initiatives. From a young age, Hubbard showed interest in sports, initially drawn to before shifting his focus to football, a decision that shaped his athletic path. Growing up in Cincinnati's supportive environment, surrounded by the Bengals' fanbase and community traditions, cultivated his enduring loyalty to his hometown, which he often describes as integral to his identity.

High school career

Sam Hubbard attended Archbishop Moeller High School in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he emerged as a standout multi-sport athlete in both football and lacrosse. Initially focusing on lacrosse, Hubbard excelled as a midfielder and verbally committed to play for Notre Dame as a sophomore in February 2012, highlighting his early promise in the sport. His versatility and athleticism across disciplines underscored his development during his high school years. In football, Hubbard transitioned to a key defensive role, primarily as a safety, contributing significantly to Archbishop Moeller's success. During his junior season in 2012, he recorded 80 tackles, seven tackles for loss, two interceptions, and two forced fumbles, helping the team secure a Division I state championship. As a senior in 2013, he amassed 109 tackles and five interceptions, earning selection to the All-Ohio first team and aiding the Crusaders in winning back-to-back state titles. Beyond his on-field performances, Hubbard demonstrated strong qualities at Archbishop Moeller, serving as a natural leader among peers and contributing to team morale during championship runs. His involvement extended to school activities, where he held roles that fostered community engagement in sports programs.

College career

Commitment and transition

Following his success as an All-American player at Archbishop Moeller High School in , Sam Hubbard committed to the to continue his career in the sport during his junior year. However, growing interest in football led him to decommit from Notre Dame in early April 2013. A pivotal moment came during Hubbard's senior year at Moeller when Ohio State head coach visited the school and observed him dominating a dodgeball game in gym class, which highlighted his athletic potential and influenced the Buckeyes' recruitment efforts. Encouraged by this attention, Hubbard pledged to join Ohio State as a preferred walk-on for football, forgoing his entirely. Hubbard officially enrolled at in the fall of 2014, where he pursued a degree in finance at the of Business. He later earned a full from the program after impressing during his early practices. Hubbard initially trained at linebacker and tight end during his early time at Ohio State before settling at defensive end. Transitioning from lacrosse midfielder to defensive end required significant physical and positional adjustments, including bulking up from around 220 pounds to over 260 pounds under Ohio State's strength program. Key influences in this shift included his high school coach John Rodenberg, who challenged him to prioritize football over a potential Division I-AA lacrosse and football path, and Ohio State staff members like Urban Meyer and defensive line coach Larry Johnson, who recognized his versatility and raw athleticism.

Playing statistics and achievements

Hubbard redshirted his freshman year in 2014, allowing him to contribute to State's national championship-winning team without depleting his eligibility, as the Buckeyes defeated 42–20 in the . Over his three active seasons from 2015 to 2017, Hubbard appeared in 40 games, making 22 starts primarily at , where he amassed 116 total tackles (64 solo, 52 assisted), 29.5 tackles for loss, and 17.0 sacks—ranking him 15th all-time in sacks at State. His performance highlighted his development from a raw athlete into a versatile pass rusher capable of disrupting both the run and pass games, a trait that positioned him as a strong prospect by the end of his junior year. Hubbard's most productive seasons came in 2016 and 2017, when he started all 13 and 14 games, respectively, recording 46 tackles with 3.5 sacks in 2016 and a career-high 42 tackles with 7.0 sacks and 13.5 tackles for loss in 2017. The following table summarizes his defensive statistics by year:
YearClassGamesStartsTackles (Solo/Ast)TFLSacksINTFFFR
2015FR13028 (16/12)8.06.5112
2016SO131346 (21/25)8.03.5000
2017JR14942 (27/15)13.57.0020
Career4022116 (64/52)29.517.0132
(Data compiled from official records.) In addition to his statistical output, Hubbard played a key role in Ohio State's defensive success, helping secure Big Ten championships in (as a redshirt) and , along with victories in the and 2017 Cotton Bowl. His standout campaign included earning Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week honors after a career-best performance against , where he recorded 2.5 sacks and a forced fumble. Off the field, Hubbard balanced his athletic demands with academics, graduating with a degree in December while earning first-team honors in 2016 and three-time Academic All-Big Ten recognition.

Professional career

Draft and rookie contract

Hubbard was selected by the in the third round, 77th overall, of the , marking the team's first pick from Ohio State since Billy Price earlier that year in the first round. As a native who attended , Hubbard's selection represented a for the , fulfilling a long-predicted path to the Bengals. At the , Hubbard measured 6 feet 5 inches tall and 270 pounds, with 33 1/8-inch arms and 10-inch hands. He opted not to run the at the combine but recorded a time of 4.95 seconds at Ohio State's pro day, while showcasing explosiveness with a 35-inch and a 9-foot-8-inch broad jump. These performances highlighted his athletic potential despite not being the fastest in his position group. Following the draft, Hubbard signed a four-year contract with the Bengals worth $3,619,200, including a of $929,200. The deal positioned him as a projected rotational , expected to contribute in pass-rush situations behind established starters like .

2018–2020 seasons

Hubbard entered the as a third-round pick of the in the , making an immediate impact as a rotational during his season. Appearing in all 16 games without a start, he recorded 39 total tackles (27 solo), 6 sacks, and 1 forced , while also contributing on special teams with over 50% snap participation in that unit. His most notable play came in Week 5 against the , when he scooped and scored on a 19-yard return , marking the Bengals' first defensive score of the season. As a newcomer adapting to the league's speed, Hubbard focused on building strength and technique, often staying after practice for extra work to compete against veteran linemen. In , Hubbard's role expanded significantly, earning a starting position at right for all 15 games he played. He tallied 76 tackles (46 solo), a team-high 8.5 sacks, and 1 forced , demonstrating improved pass-rush efficiency with 10 tackles for loss and 13 hits. His increased defensive —84% of the team's total—reflected the Bengals' trust in his development amid a rebuilding phase, where the defense ranked near the bottom of the league in points allowed. Hubbard's consistency helped stabilize the edge rush, though the team finished 2-14, highlighting ongoing challenges in overall defensive cohesion. The 2020 season brought further hurdles for Hubbard, impacted by the pandemic's disruptions to training and protocols. He started the first five games, logging 62 total tackles (33 solo), 2 sacks, and 1 forced fumble across 13 appearances, but suffered a left injury in Week 5 against the Ravens that sidelined him for three games on injured reserve. Upon returning in Week 9, he started the remaining eight contests, adapting to a more versatile role shifting between left and right ends amid injuries to other linemen. Despite the reduced sack production, his 75% defensive snap share underscored his growing reliability in a Bengals defense that struggled with a 4-11-1 record, emphasizing the physical toll and adjustment to shortened preparation amid the league's health challenges.

2021–2023 seasons

In 2021, Hubbard solidified his role as a full-time starter for the , appearing in all 16 games and recording 62 combined tackles (33 solo, 29 assisted) along with 7.5 sacks. Following his strong play, Hubbard signed a four-year, $40 million contract extension with the Bengals in July 2021, securing his position on the defensive line through 2025. His performance contributed to the Bengals' first division title since 2013, culminating in a playoff run that advanced to the , where Hubbard added 3.0 sacks across four postseason games. Off the field, Hubbard was selected as the Bengals' nominee for the NFL Man of the Year Award, recognizing his community involvement through the Sam Hubbard Foundation. The 2022 season marked a career highlight for Hubbard, as he started 15 games and tallied 60 combined tackles (34 solo, 26 assisted) and 6.5 sacks during the regular season. He earned another nomination as the team's Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year candidate, highlighting his continued philanthropic efforts. Hubbard's postseason impact was defining in the Wild Card round against the Baltimore Ravens, where he forced and returned a fumble 98 yards for a touchdown—dubbed the "Fumble in the Jungle"—sealing a 24-17 victory and propelling the Bengals to another AFC Championship appearance, though they fell to the Kansas City Chiefs. In three playoff games, he contributed 7 combined tackles and 1.0 sack. Hubbard maintained consistency as an in 2023, starting all 15 games he played and registering 58 combined tackles (38 solo, 20 assisted) with 6.0 sacks. Despite the Bengals missing the that year, his steady production anchored the defensive front, building on his emergence from rotational duties in prior seasons.

2024 season and

In the 2024 season, Hubbard entered with a Grade 3 injury but chose to play through it, starting all 14 games he appeared in for the . His production was limited compared to prior years, registering 41 tackles (25 solo), 2.0 sacks, two pass breakups, and one , reflecting the physical toll of the hamstring issue and ongoing wear from his rugged playing style. The season ended abruptly in Week 15 against the on December 16, when Hubbard suffered a torn (PCL) in his knee during a 2-yard reception on offense—a rare highlight in an otherwise diminished campaign. On March 5, 2025, at age 29, Hubbard announced his retirement from the after seven seasons, all with the Bengals, citing the cumulative impact of injuries—including the recent tear and earlier ankle and issues—as well as a desire to prioritize family time. His decision cleared approximately $9.5 million in space for the Bengals in 2025, providing financial flexibility for the team that had been set to carry an $11.5 million cap hit from his contract. Looking ahead, Hubbard expressed plans to attend Bengals games as a fan and expand his Sam Hubbard Foundation, which supports youth development in , while affirming his enduring connection to the organization with the statement, "I'm a for life." In reflecting on his legacy, Hubbard leaves behind a career of 104 regular-season games with 38.5 sacks—ranking fourth among defensive ends from his 2018 draft class—plus seven postseason appearances and four playoff sacks, highlighted by memorable contributions to the team's 2021 run.

Personal life

Family and marriage

Sam Hubbard maintains close ties with his immediate family, who provided unwavering support throughout his career. His parents, and Jim Hubbard, natives, recognized and nurtured his passion for football from a young age. His , , a critical care nurse, and sister, Madison, also a nurse, exemplified family dedication by coordinating efforts among relatives and friends to order an unprecedented number of customized Bengals jerseys in support of his rookie season. Following his retirement, Hubbard married Jessica Koehler on April 12, 2025, at El Chorro Lodge in . The couple first met while attending . As of November 2025, the couple has no children. Hubbard's deep-rooted connection to has shaped his family values and post-retirement life, with the city remaining the lifelong home for him and his family. His family has also been involved in his events, reflecting their shared commitment to .

Philanthropy

Sam Hubbard established the Sam Hubbard Foundation in 2020 to address food insecurity, promote education, and encourage healthy lifestyles among residents. The organization focuses on equitable access to essential resources, partnering with local entities to support underserved communities in the region. This initiative stemmed from Hubbard's earlier efforts during the , including a 2020 GoFundMe campaign that raised over $85,000, enabling the Freestore Food Bank to provide more than 250,000 meals to those in need. A key program of the foundation is Hubbard's Cupboard, launched in 2022 in collaboration with Crayons to Computers, which combats food insecurity and other student needs by stocking on-site pantries in schools with snacks, hygiene products, school supplies, and healthy food options. By November 2025, following Hubbard's retirement from professional football, the program had expanded to 36 local schools, serving over 16,900 students and enhancing engagement in learning and self-esteem as reported by educators. In May 2025, the foundation hosted its fifth annual Fowling Tournament, drawing nearly 1,000 participants to raise funds for Hubbard's . Hubbard's philanthropic work earned him nominations for the NFL Man of the Year Award in both 2021 and 2022, recognizing his off-field leadership and community impact. In 2022, the Sam Hubbard Foundation received the inaugural FOWLanthropy Award for its innovative charitable efforts. Donations to the foundation experienced significant surges during the Bengals' 2022 playoff run, exceeding $100,000 in early 2022 alone, and continued to grow post-2023 with increased fan and corporate support. By 2025, the foundation saw ongoing expansion through partnerships, including a $25,000 matching grant from TQL and collaborations with to further combat food insecurity.

Career statistics

Regular season

Sam Hubbard's regular season career with the Cincinnati Bengals spanned from 2018 to 2024, during which he appeared in 104 games, recording 236 solo tackles, 38.5 sacks, and 6 forced fumbles. The following table summarizes his year-by-year regular season statistics, including games played, combined tackles (solo plus assisted), sacks, interceptions, forced fumbles, and fumble recoveries. All statistics are from his tenure with the Bengals.
YearTeamGames (G)Starts (GS)Combined TacklesSacksInterceptions (Int)Forced Fumbles (FF)Fumble Recoveries (FR)
2018CIN160396.0011
2019CIN1515768.5010
2020CIN1313622.0010
2021CIN1616627.5012
2022CIN1515606.5010
2023CIN1515586.0002
2024CIN1414412.0110
Career Total1048839838.5165
Hubbard's sack production showed variability across seasons, peaking at 8.5 in 2019 before dipping to 2.0 in 2020, and later stabilizing around 6.0 to 7.5 sacks in several subsequent years.

Postseason

Sam Hubbard appeared in seven postseason games during his career with the Cincinnati Bengals, all between the 2021 and 2022 seasons, starting each contest and contributing to two deep playoff runs that included a Super Bowl berth. Over these appearances, he recorded 29 total tackles, 4.0 sacks, and two fumble recoveries, including a franchise-record 98-yard fumble return touchdown that stands as the longest in NFL playoff history. His defensive efforts were pivotal in high-stakes matchups, helping anchor the Bengals' front during their AFC North contention. In the 2021 postseason, Hubbard played all four games as the Bengals advanced to , tallying 22 tackles (13 solo), 3.0 sacks, and one forced fumble while registering the only pass deflection of his playoff career. He notched multiple sacks in the AFC Championship victory over the , including 2.0 in the 27-24 overtime win that propelled to the . In , despite the 23-20 loss to the , Hubbard contributed eight tackles (five solo) and two tackles for loss. Hubbard's 2022 postseason featured three games, where he added seven tackles (four solo), 1.0 sack, and both of his career playoff recoveries. His signature moment came in the Wild Card round against the on January 15, 2023, when he recovered a by running back at the Bengals' 2-yard line and returned it 98 yards for a , securing a 24-17 victory and breaking the previous NFL playoff record for longest return previously held by Andy Russell (93 yards in 1974). The Bengals continued their run with a Divisional win over the before falling to the Chiefs in the AFC Championship, where Hubbard recorded his lone sack of the postseason. The team did not qualify for the playoffs in 2023 or 2024.
YearTeamGamesStartsComb. TacklesSoloAst.SacksFFFRYdsTDTFLPDQB Hits
2021CIN44221393.01000514
2022CIN337431.002981103
CareerCIN772917124.012981617

References

  1. https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/bio/_/id/3121416/sam-hubbard
  2. https://www.nfl.com/prospects/sam-hubbard/32004855-4238-7605-6321-5450303da155
  3. https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/player/_/id/25176/sam-hubbard
  4. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HubbSa00.htm
  5. https://www.nfl.com/players/sam-hubbard/
  6. https://www.bengals.com/video/sam-hubbard-highlights-fumble-recovery-td-bengals-ravens
  7. https://ftw.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2025/03/05/bengals-sam-hubbard-retirement-touchdown-catch-last-play-video/81610677007/
  8. https://www.samhubbardfoundation.com/
  9. https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/nfl/bengals/2023/01/20/bengals-sam-hubbards-lasting-connection-to-his-hometown/69814285007/
  10. https://www.essentiallysports.com/nfl-active-news-who-are-sam-hubbards-parents-all-about-cincinnati-natives-amy-and-jim-hubbard/
  11. https://www.bengals.com/news/sam-hubbard-s-season-of-trial-gets-a-lift
  12. https://www.cleveland.com/bengals/2023/05/mothers-day-was-a-little-extra-special-for-bengals-edge-rusher-sam-hubbard.html
  13. https://www.uchealth.com/en/media-room/press-releases/uc-health-food-is-medicine-program-receives-gift-from-sam-hubbard-foundation
  14. https://www.wcpo.com/sports/football/bengals/bengals-captain-sam-hubbard-makes-transformative-donation-to-help-with-food-insecurity-in-cincinnati
  15. https://www.cleveland.com/osu/2013/11/once_committed_to_notre_dame_f.html
  16. https://news.medill.northwestern.edu/chicago/sam-hubbard-embodies-heart-of-cincinnati-and-the-bengals/
  17. https://www.espn.com/blog/high-school/lacrosse/post/_/id/3492/moeller-ohio-sophomore-to-notre-dame
  18. https://247sports.com/player/sam-hubbard-29887/
  19. https://theozone.net/2017_ohiostate_football_roster/sam-hubbard/
  20. https://www.wlwt.com/article/moeller-high-school-grad-sam-hubbard-reacts-to-season-saving-play-for-bengals/42525911
  21. https://www.bengals.com/news/sam-hubbard-retirement-cincinnati-kid-foundation-bengal-for-life
  22. https://www.espn.com/blog/bigten/post/_/id/138917/ohio-state-de-sam-hubbards-long-strange-road-to-pass-rushing-success
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  24. https://www.thelantern.com/2015/09/sam-hubbards-journey-the-road-from-lacrosse-commit-to-osu-defensive-end/
  25. https://www.elevenwarriors.com/2013/06/22871/11w-community-interview-cincinnati-moeller-ath-sam-hubbard
  26. https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/hubbards-career-changed-in-dodgeball-led-him-to-bengals
  27. https://www.toledoblade.com/sports/ohio-state/2015/09/16/Sam-Hubbard-s-path-change-turns-into-OSU-gain/stories/20150916069
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  31. https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/college/2016/10/27/gameday-ohio-state-s-sam/24010286007/
  32. https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/sam-hubbard-1.html
  33. https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/ohio-state/2015.html
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  35. https://ohiostatebuckeyes.com/sam-hubbard-earns-1st-team-academic-all-america-honors
  36. https://www.superiorcu.com/about/news/news/2022/08/10/superior-credit-union-announcespartnership-with-sam-hubbard
  37. https://www.sportingnews.com/us/ncaa-football/news/sam-hubbard-ohio-state-nfl-draft-academic-all-american-urban-meyer-hampshire-society/380t8ql360q31mz068w89bh7s
  38. https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/college/football/2018/04/27/nfl-draft-bengals-take-ohio/12344609007/
  39. https://www.daytondailynews.com/sports/predicted-path-nfl-plays-out-bengals-pick-osu-hubbard/MQZhreVGYRXM1qEefVVaLP/
  40. https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/sam-hubbard-40-time
  41. https://www.landgrantholyland.com/2018/3/2/17054520/sam-hubbard-nfl-ohio-state-draft-profile-2018-combine-results
  42. https://www.bengals.com/news/home-is-sweet-for-hubbard-20602424
  43. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HubbSa00/gamelog/2018/
  44. https://www.espn.com/nfl/game/_/gameId/401030785/dolphins-bengals
  45. https://www.cincyjungle.com/2018/7/6/17536674/bengals-rookie-de-sam-hubbard-taking-extra-steps-more-competitive
  46. https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/stats/_/id/3121416/sam-hubbard
  47. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HubbSa00/gamelog/2019/
  48. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30120903/cincinnati-bengals-put-starting-de-sam-hubbard-elbow-ir
  49. https://www.bengals.com/news/sam-hubbard-placed-on-reserve-injured
  50. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HubbSa00/gamelog/2020/
  51. https://www.bengals.com/news/hubbard-nominated-for-walter-payton-nfl-man-of-the-year-award
  52. https://www.bengals.com/news/sam-hubbard-nominated-walter-payton-nfl-man-of-the-year-2022-nfl-award
  53. https://www.nfl.com/videos/listen-to-sam-hubbard-s-mic-d-up-audio-for-his-98-yard-fumble-return-td-vs-raven
  54. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/44121503/long-bengals-de-sam-hubbard-retiring-seven-seasons
  55. https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/football/news/bengals-sam-hubbard-just-2-0-sacks-during-2024/
  56. https://www.rotowire.com/football/player/sam-hubbard-12495
  57. https://www.bengals.com/news/sam-hubbard-announces-retirement-from-pro-football
  58. https://stripehype.com/sam-hubbards-shocking-retirement-benefits-bengals-on-the-cap-sheet-01jnkkftfbmx
  59. https://www.wcpo.com/news/insider/sam-hubbard-former-moeller-high-standout-turned-bengals-rookie-adjusting-well-to-life-in-nfl
  60. https://www.brides.com/exclusive-sam-hubbard-unique-arizona-wedding-jaimee-morse-photography-11715807
  61. https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/nfl/bengals/2025/04/13/sam-hubbard-wedding-photos-former-bengals-defensive-end-marries-jessica-koehler-april-12/83074465007/
  62. https://www.essentiallysports.com/nfl-active-news-who-is-sam-hubbards-mystery-fiancee-meet-jess-koehler-bengals-des-partner/
  63. https://dayton247now.com/sports/bengals-defensive-lineman-sam-hubbard-engaged-jessica-koehler-cincinnati-moeller-ohio-state
  64. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/nfl/news/sam-hubbard-shocks-bengals-fans-with-retirement-at-29-a-hometown-hero-bids-farewell/articleshow/118743565.cms
  65. https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/bengals-sam-hubbard-announces-retirement-at-age-29-after-seven-nfl-seasons-im-a-bengal-for-life/
  66. https://www.samhubbardfoundation.com/aboutus
  67. https://www.bengals.com/news/sam-hubbard-hubbards-cupboards-launch-mount-healthy-schools
  68. https://www.crayons2computers.org/hubbards-cupboard
  69. https://www.tql.com/about-us/press-releases/tql-pledges-%2425k-and-1%2C500-school-kits-to-sam-hubbard-foundation
  70. https://www.cincinnati.com/picture-gallery/entertainment/2025/05/16/sam-hubbard-2025-fowling-tournament-photos/83669259007/
  71. https://www.bengals.com/video/sam-hubbard-cincinnati-bengals-2021-walter-payton-man-of-the-year-nominee
  72. https://www.cincinnatimagazine.com/article/sam-hubbard-foundation-wins-fowlanthropy-award/
  73. https://www.fox19.com/2023/01/20/sam-hubbards-foundation-surpasses-fundraising-goal-after-fumble-jungle/
  74. https://www.tql.com/about-us/lifeattql-blog/july-2025/former-bengals-player-sam-hubbard-and-tql-sack-hunger%2C-hygiene-needs-with-back-to-school-kits
  75. https://www.fox19.com/2025/05/03/sam-hubbard-foundation-teams-up-with-fifth-third-fight-food-insecurity/
  76. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HubbSa00/gamelog/post/
  77. https://www.nfl.com/news/bengals-sam-hubbard-on-game-winning-fumble-return-you-can-t-replicate-a-feeling-
  78. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/cin/2024.htm
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