NFL fans were stunned when Sam Hubbard announced his retirement at just 29 years old. Hubbard, who played a vital role in the Cincinnati Bengals’ defense for seven seasons, decided to hang up his cleats with one year left on his contract. The news came as a surprise to many, especially since Hubbard has been a fan favorite and a steady force for the Bengals. However, his decision might actually help the team in unexpected ways. In this article, we’ll break down why Hubbard retired, how it impacts the Bengals’ salary cap, and what’s next for both him and the team.
Sam Hubbard’s Journey with the Bengals
Sam Hubbard’s NFL career began when the Bengals picked him in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft. An Ohio native, Hubbard quickly made a name for himself with his hard work and impressive play on the field. Over seven seasons, he became a reliable part of the Bengals’ defense. Fans loved his passion for the game and his dedication to Cincinnati.
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Hubbard recorded 29.5 sacks and 323 tackles in his career, making him a key player for the Bengals. Some of his most memorable moments came in clutch situations, helping the team secure important victories. At 29 years old, Hubbard still had some good years left, which made his retirement even more shocking.
Why Did Sam Hubbard Retire So Early?
Hubbard’s retirement might have seemed sudden, but there were a few signs it could happen. After a disappointing 2024 season, there were rumors that the Bengals might cut him to save cap space. Hubbard had one year left on his contract, but he wasn’t keen on playing for another team. In his retirement announcement, he made it clear that wearing the Bengals’ Black-and-Orange was special to him.
“To play my entire career in one uniform is incredibly special to me,” Hubbard wrote. “And I am a Bengal for life, always have been and always will be.”
For Hubbard, the thought of playing anywhere else might have been a deal-breaker. Retiring allowed him to end his career on his terms, staying loyal to the Bengals and their fans.
How Hubbard’s Retirement Helps the Bengals’ Salary Cap
While losing Hubbard is tough for Cincinnati, it actually gives the team a financial boost. By retiring, Hubbard cleared $9.5 million from the Bengals’ salary cap for the upcoming offseason. This is a significant amount, especially when added to the $17 million the team saved by releasing veterans Sheldon Rankins and Alex Cappa. In total, the Bengals now have over $26 million in cap space to work with.
This extra money could be crucial as the Bengals try to lock in long-term contracts for some of their top players. Key contributors like Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, Trey Hendrickson, and Mike Gesicki are all due for new deals. The added cap space gives the Bengals more flexibility to keep their core together and stay competitive in the AFC.
Sam Hubbard’s Age, Net Worth, and Life After Football
At just 29, Hubbard’s decision to retire might seem early. However, it’s not uncommon for NFL players to step away young, especially with growing concerns about long-term health and quality of life. During his career, Hubbard earned a significant amount of money, with his net worth estimated at around $12 million in 2025. Much of this came from his contract with the Bengals, which included a four-year, $40 million extension signed in 2021.
So, what’s next for Hubbard? Given his popularity in Cincinnati and his strong ties to Ohio, he might stay connected to football in some way. Coaching, broadcasting, or even a role with the Bengals’ organization could be in his future. For now, it seems like he’s focused on spending time with family and enjoying life after football.
How the Bengals Can Use the Extra Cap Space
The Bengals have some big decisions to make with the cap space they’ve saved. Ja’Marr Chase is due for a massive extension soon, and keeping him in Cincinnati is a top priority. Tee Higgins is also in line for a new deal, and the team’s pass rush could use some reinforcements with Hubbard gone.
The extra money might also allow the Bengals to add depth on the offensive line, an area that has been a concern in recent years. Improving protection for Joe Burrow could go a long way in keeping the Bengals in the playoff hunt.
The Impact on Bengals Fans
Hubbard’s retirement is bittersweet for Bengals fans. On one hand, they lose a beloved player who embodied the team’s spirit and work ethic. On the other, his decision helps the team financially and might even improve their chances of signing key players.
For many fans, the most comforting part of Hubbard’s retirement was his message about staying a Bengal for life. His loyalty and passion for the team will be remembered long after his last game.
Final Thoughts
Sam Hubbard’s retirement at 29 might be surprising, but it’s also a reminder of how unpredictable the NFL can be. While his absence will be felt on the field, the financial benefits for the Bengals could help them build a stronger team for the future. As Hubbard steps away from football, fans will surely keep an eye on what he does next—whether it’s staying connected to the Bengals or pursuing new opportunities.
For now, the Bengals have a lot of work to do with their new cap space. How they use it could shape the team’s future for years to come.
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