Chuba Hubbard injury update: Latest on Panthers RB for Fantasy Football Week 17

Fans were surprised Wednesday after Carolina Panthers star running back Chuba Hubbard sat out practice. Contrary to other teams resting their players to celebrate Christmas, the Panthers returned to the field, but Hubbard was one of the big absentees, along with veteran wide receiver Adam Thielen.

Thursday was a little different for both players, but it's still unclear whether they'll be ready to play on Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Hubbard and Thielen were listed as limited participants, adding more mystery to the situation.

The Panthers have shown significant improvement on offense in recent weeks, and they'll try to finish the season strong, starting this weekend against one of the NFC South division leaders.

Chuba Hubbard injury update: What happened to Panthers star RB?

Chuba Hubbard was included in a lengthy 17-player injury report, listed with a knee issue on Thursday.

He was initially listed as a non-participant on Wednesday’s Week 17 injury report due to rest, and it's unclear if his limited practice status on Thursday is a sign of a new health concern.

He’s coming off a terrific performance against the Arizona Cardinals that earned him NFC Offensive Player of the Week honors.

He carried the ball 25 times for 152 rushing yards and two touchdowns while catching four passes for 13 receiving yards. Hubbard's performance helped the Panthers win their fourth game of the season, and they could reach five wins if Bryce Young, Hubbard and Co. continue performing at this level on Sunday.

Friday’s report should provide a clearer understanding of Hubbard’s status for Week 17, but he's not the only one causing headaches for the Panthers' coaching staff.

In addition, four other key starters missed Thursday’s practice session: left guard Damien Lewis (illness), right tackle Taylor Moton (knee), outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney (knee/elbow) and cornerback Jaycee Horn (hip). Thielen was added to the report with a hamstring injury.

Former NFL star urges Chuba Hubbard to break his longstanding record

After his terrific performance against the Arizona Cardinals, Chuba Hubbard is closer to setting a new record as the Canadian with the most rushing yards in an NFL season. Rueben Mayes, who holds the record with 1,353 yards, wants the four-year veteran to break it this season.

“I’m cheering for him to do it,” Mayes said, via The Canadian Press. “I did what I did 38 years ago and being the first (Canadian) to do it, I feel a lot of pride about that.

Sitting at 1,195 rushing yards, Hubbard could break the record as soon as this Sunday, but it remains to be seen if he'll be available.