Longtime Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Sam Hubbard is set to retire from the NFL at the age of 29. The Cincinnati native, who spent all seven seasons of his career with the Bengals, shared the news on social media. Hubbard’s retirement marks the end of an era for a player who became a hometown hero. Moreover, he was a key figure in the Bengals’ resurgence.
Sam Hubbard retires from NFL at the age of 29
Sam Hubbard, also known as “The Cincinnati Kid,” grew up dreaming of playing for the Bengals. After a standout high school career at Archbishop Moeller and a successful stint at Ohio State University, Hubbard was drafted by the Bengals in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft. From the moment he put on the orange and black jersey, Hubbard became a fan favorite and a cornerstone of the team’s defense.
In his retirement announcement on X (formerly Twitter), Hubbard expressed gratitude for his career and the city that shaped him. “In my heart, I know that I gave this game, this team, and this city everything that I had,” he wrote. “That is why today, with great pride, I am announcing that I am moving on from my playing career in the NFL and entering the next chapter of my life.”
Sam Hubbard’s impact on the Bengals extended beyond his on-field performance. Over seven seasons, he played in 104 regular-season games, recording 38.5 sacks, 16 pass deflections, and six forced fumbles. Furthermore, he was a four-time team captain.
One of Hubbard’s most iconic moments came during the 2022 playoffs. He famously returned a 98-yard fumble for a touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens. The play, dubbed the “Fumble in the Jungle,” remains the longest postseason score in Bengals history. Hubbard’s retirement news comes as the Bengals prepare for free agency. This signals the end of an era for one of the team’s most beloved players.
