Ex-NFL star Mayes pulling for Panthers’ Hubbard to break his Canadian rushing mark

Rueben Mayes: A Canadian NFL Legend Rooting for Chuba Hubbard to Break Records

Rueben Mayes has long been the standard by which Canadian running backs are measured in the NFL. In 1986, Mayes made history by becoming the first Canadian to rush for over 1,000 yards in a single NFL season. As a rookie with the New Orleans Saints, Mayes ran for an impressive 1,353 yards over the course of 16 regular-season games.

Fast forward to December 8, 2022, and another Canadian running back, Chuba Hubbard, achieved the same feat by surpassing the 1,000-yard mark. Hubbard, a native of Sherwood Park, Alberta, now has his sights set on surpassing Mayes’ single-season record. With 159 yards needed in the Carolina Panthers’ final two regular-season games, Hubbard has a real chance to make history.

Mayes, now 61 years old and hailing from North Battleford, Saskatchewan, is watching Hubbard’s journey closely and cheering him on. He recognizes the significance of Hubbard potentially breaking his record and believes that Canadians should take pride in seeing a homegrown talent excel on the big stage of the NFL.

Having played in the NFL with the New Orleans Saints and Seattle Seahawks, Mayes accumulated 3,484 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns during his career. He was named the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year in 1986 and earned Pro Bowl honors twice. In 2004, he was inducted into the Saints’ Hall of Fame.

As Hubbard, 25, prepares to face tough challenges in the Panthers’ upcoming games against Tampa Bay and Atlanta, Mayes acknowledges that the road ahead won’t be easy. Both opposing teams boast strong run defenses, which will test Hubbard’s skills and determination.

Despite the challenges, Hubbard’s recent performance against the Arizona Cardinals showcased his potential. With 1,195 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns so far this season, Hubbard has already proven himself as a rising star in the NFL. His four-year contract extension worth $33.2 million reflects the Panthers’ confidence in his abilities.

Mayes, who currently works at Seattle Children’s Hospital, remains grateful for his football career and the health he enjoys today. With no lingering effects from his playing days, Mayes credits his good genes and active lifestyle for his well-being.

Reflecting on his own accomplishments, Mayes encourages Hubbard to aim for greatness and pursue his dreams with determination. As a former standout player at Washington State and a College Football Hall of Fame inductee, Mayes knows what it takes to excel at the highest level of the sport.

For Mayes, seeing Hubbard follow in his footsteps and potentially surpass his records is a source of pride and excitement. As Hubbard continues his journey in the NFL, Mayes will be watching closely, rooting for the young Canadian running back to leave his mark on the league.