North Charlotte Today

The Carolina Panthers have made several roster changes ahead of their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The team placed running back Chuba Hubbard and rookie cornerback Chau Smith-Wade on injured reserve. Smith-Wade, who had taken over the nickel position and started four games, will miss the upcoming match after securing his first career interception earlier this month against the Buccaneers.

Hubbard, who practiced on a limited basis Friday, was initially listed as questionable. However, after practice, he reported pain and an MRI revealed a Grade 2 calf strain. This injury will sideline him for the remaining two games of the season. Hubbard has rushed for 1,195 yards this season, ranking sixth in the league before Week 17, and scored 10 touchdowns.

To fill these vacancies on the active roster, running back Mike Boone and quarterback Jack Plummer have been signed from the practice squad. Boone is expected to share rushing duties with Raheem Blackshear in Hubbard's absence. He has participated in four games this year with seven carries for 22 yards and has contributed to special teams.

Plummer, an undrafted rookie from Louisville who spent most of the year on the practice squad following a strong preseason finish, was previously elevated for Week 8 but did not play due to Andy Dalton's injury.

Additionally, defensive end DeShawn Williams has been elevated from the practice squad by standard elevation.