The Ohio State football program has had a lot of great defensive linemen over the years. It seems like they produce a first-round talent up front almost every season. Larry Johnson has done a great job over the last decade or so making sure that those guys are prepared for the NFL.
One of those players who always seemed to be in the right spot when they played for the Ohio State Buckeyes is Sam Hubbard. Hubbard actually was recruited to Ohio State as a safety. He transitioned into a defensive end, and that ended up being the right career move for him.
Hubbard was never an All-Big Ten performer, but he always was in the right spot. He was just a guy who knew how to play football. He was a third-round pick of the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2018 NFL Draft. Now, he has decided to call it quits and retire from the NFL after seven seasons.
Former Ohio State football player Sam Hubbard retires from the NFL
Hubbard announced his decision on social media to retire after just seven seasons. He was a team captain for the Bengals and just decided that it was time to go.
— Sam Hubbard (@Sam_Hubbard_) March 5, 2025
For a guy who grew up in Southwest Ohio, Hubbard was able to live out his dream. Playing for the Bengals was the ultimate honor for him. He was a four-time captain of the team as well, so he was able to play very well for the Bengals, too.
This year would have been the last year on Hubbard's contract. He signed a four-year $40 million rookie extension back in 2021. He made a lot of money over the course of his career. Now, he has decided to walk away with all of that money and a lot of fame.
Hubbard is still just 29 years old. He has a lot of his life left to live, and he is very excited about the next chapter of his life. It was a lot of fun to watch Hubbard play over the years. We wish him nothing but the best in his next chapter.