Sam Hubbard Bio
Sam Hubbard (born June 29, 1995) is an American former professional football player who was a defensive end for his entire seven-year career with the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Ohio State Buckeyes and was selected by the Bengals in the third round of the 2018 NFL draft.
Early Life and Background
Sam Hubbard was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA. He attended Archbishop Moeller High School in Cincinnati, where he played safety and recorded 109 tackles and five interceptions as a senior. Hubbard was rated as a five-star recruit and also played lacrosse, having once committed to the University of Notre Dame for lacrosse before focusing on football.
His athletic versatility in high school set the foundation for his football career. Hubbard committed to Ohio State University, where he would develop into a top defensive prospect.
Path to American Football
Hubbard redshirted his first year at Ohio State in 2014. He played in all 13 games as a redshirt freshman in 2015, recording 28 tackles and 6.5 sacks. In 2016, he started all 13 games and had 46 tackles and 3.5 sacks. His redshirt junior year in 2017 saw him play 14 games with a career-high seven sacks, earning him Second-team All-Big Ten honors.
Following the 2017 season, Hubbard declared for the 2018 NFL draft, where he was projected as a first or second round pick by experts. He participated in the NFL Scouting Combine and Ohio State’s pro day, showcasing his skills as a defensive end and edge rusher.
Sam Hubbard Career
Early Career (2018–2019)
The Cincinnati Bengals selected Sam Hubbard in the third round with the 77th overall pick in the 2018 NFL draft. He signed a four-year contract worth $3.61 million that included a signing bonus of $929,200. Hubbard recorded his first career sack in his rookie season against the Baltimore Ravens and scored a 19-yard fumble recovery touchdown against the Miami Dolphins. He finished his rookie year with six sacks and 39 tackles.
In 2019, Hubbard improved his performance, recording 8.5 sacks and 76 tackles over 15 games. He had notable games including two sacks and 10 tackles against the Seattle Seahawks and 1.5 sacks in a win over the Cleveland Browns.
Cincinnati Bengals Breakthrough (2020–2024)
Hubbard’s 2020 season was interrupted by an elbow injury that placed him on injured reserve, but he returned to play 13 games with two sacks and 62 tackles. In 2021, he signed a four-year, $40 million contract extension with the Bengals. That season, he recorded 7.5 sacks and 62 tackles, including a pivotal strip sack in the AFC Championship that helped send the Bengals to Super Bowl LVI, where he made eight tackles in the loss to the Los Angeles Rams.
During the 2022 season, Hubbard continued to be a key defensive player, finishing with 6.5 sacks and 60 tackles. He made NFL postseason history with a 98-yard fumble return touchdown in the Wild Card Round against the Baltimore Ravens, the longest in NFL playoff history. In 2023, he played 15 games, recording six sacks and 58 tackles. In December 2024, Hubbard scored his first career offensive touchdown but suffered a PCL injury that ended his season early.
Retirement and Legacy (2025)
On March 5, 2025, Sam Hubbard announced his retirement from the NFL after seven seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals. He finished his career with 398 total tackles, 38.5 sacks, six forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries, 16 passes defended, one interception, and three touchdowns. Hubbard’s impact on the Bengals’ defense and his memorable postseason plays have left a lasting legacy.
Driving Style and Strengths
Sam Hubbard was known for his versatility as a defensive end, combining strength and speed to pressure quarterbacks effectively. His ability to force turnovers and make critical plays in high-pressure moments defined his playing style. Hubbard’s partnership with the Bengals’ defensive coaching staff maximized his impact on the field.
Notable Events and Milestones
Hubbard’s 98-yard fumble return touchdown in the 2023 NFL playoffs stands as a historic moment in postseason history. His strip sack in the 2021 AFC Championship was crucial in the Bengals’ journey to the Super Bowl. These plays highlight his knack for game-changing contributions.
Sam Hubbard Career Wins
Throughout his NFL career, Sam Hubbard consistently contributed to the Cincinnati Bengals’ defensive success. While primarily a defensive player without traditional wins like offensive players, his sacks, tackles, and forced turnovers were vital to the team’s victories and playoff appearances.
Other Wins & Performances
Hubbard earned Second-team All-Big Ten honors in 2017 during his college career at Ohio State. His professional career was marked by steady improvement and key performances in critical games, including playoff victories.
Sam Hubbard Family
Personal Life
Sam Hubbard is married to Jessica Koehler, with their marriage taking place in April 2025 shortly after his retirement announcement. He founded the Sam Hubbard Foundation in 2021, reflecting his commitment to community support. The Bengals recognized his off-field contributions by nominating him for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award in 2021 and 2022.
2025 Season Performance
Sam Hubbard retired before the 2025 NFL season began. His retirement marked the end of a notable seven-year career with the Cincinnati Bengals, during which he established himself as a key defensive player and community figure. His legacy continues through his foundation and impact on the Bengals organization.