Chuba Hubbard claims the Panthers are 'closer than ever' to a Super Bowl. See how the team's 2024 offseason moves to support Bryce Young back up his big talk.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
It was just a Tuesday in June, but Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard delivered a statement with January intensity. When asked about the team's goals, Hubbard didn't mince words, declaring the Panthers are 'closer than ever' to a Super Bowl. While fans digest that bold proclamation, the front office is busy providing the evidence, systematically building an offense around Bryce Young that aims to turn that confidence into reality.
'That's always been the goal. That's the goal this year. I think we're closer than ever.'
Chuba Hubbard's Super Bowl talk is more than just offseason hype; it's a reflection of the palpable shift in culture within the Panthers organization. 'That's always been the goal. That's the goal this year,' Hubbard told the media, capturing the renewed optimism that has defined the new regime. This isn't the quiet hope of a rebuilding team; it's the vocal confidence of a squad that believes its toughest days are behind it. For a fanbase starved for swagger, Hubbard's words are a rallying cry, setting a high bar for the 2025 season.
Confidence is great, but it needs to be backed by talent. That's exactly what the Panthers' management is focused on. The primary objective of the offseason has been clear: surround quarterback Bryce Young with a formidable arsenal. The team has heavily invested in its wide-receiving corps, prioritizing reliable targets to help Young build on the promising momentum he showed late in the 2024 season. The strategy is to create a dynamic, consistent passing attack that can truly compete in the NFC South. While the wide receiver room looks transformed, questions still linger about the tight end position, a spot the team will need to address to fully round out its offensive attack.
The team's commitment to building a winning culture extends beyond the playing field. In a significant community move, the Panthers announced on Tuesday that their annual Nike 11-On Tournament will now be held at Johnson C. Smith University's Eddie McGirt Field. This is the first time the premier high school event will take place at the historic Charlotte venue. By bringing the tournament to JCSU, the Panthers are strengthening their local ties, fostering the next generation of football talent, and demonstrating a commitment to the city that goes deeper than just Sunday afternoons. It's another brick in the foundation of a franchise looking to build something lasting.
With a confident locker room led by voices like Hubbard, a retooled offense designed for Bryce Young's success, and a deepening connection to the community, the Panthers are checking all the right boxes in June. The optimism is high, and the message is clear: this team expects to win. Now, all eyes turn to training camp, where these new pieces will finally come together and we'll get our first real glimpse of whether the Panthers are truly 'closer than ever' to their ultimate goal.
