Former Ohio State great Sam Hubbard has decided to hang up the cleats. Hubbard announced his retirement on social media on Wednesday morning, ending his seven-year professional career with his hometown Cincinnati Bengals.
Hubbard, of course, was more well known in Columbus for his time in Scarlet and Gray. In three years as a Buckeye, Hubbard left a lasting impact and made some very memorable plays. He would go on to be drafted in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft by Cincinnati where he spent his entire career.
There was no shortage of love and shoutouts shared by former teammates, coaches, and fans upon hearing the news. We’ve pulled some of the best that not only show how great a player Hubbard was, but how good of a human being as well. Enjoy some of the best social media reactions to the news.
Two for the price of one
Pat McAfee approved
Longest postseason fumble return in NFL history
A piece of history in Canton
.@Sam_Hubbard_ comes full circle in Ohio with today’s retirement announcement! The @Bengals DE set the record for the longest postseason fumble return (98 yards) on Jan. 15, 2023, in Cincinnati. His legendary play was once showcased at the Hall of Fame following the Wild Card win… pic.twitter.com/p6wu68kjAh
— Pro Football Hall of Fame (@ProFootballHOF) March 5, 2025
Bengals owner Mike Brown filled with gratitude
All-time favorite… for many reasons
One of my favorite all-time @OhioStateFB players, the career of @Sam_Hubbard_ has run its magnificent course. Football career, that is. His Sam Hubbard Foundation probably is just gonna add more steam, along with anything else within his focus. https://t.co/V9aRphGTGq
— Tim May (@TIM_MAYsports) March 5, 2025
Cincinnati Archbishop Moeller Pride
Congratulations on a remarkable career, Sam. You embodied what it means to be a Man of Moeller throughout your entire career, both on and off the field.
The Moeller community is very proud of you, and we look forward to your future accomplishments! @Sam_Hubbard_ https://t.co/JUcbShnHa7
— Archbishop Moeller Football (@MoellerFootball) March 5, 2025
Not an easy task
The highlight reel
Not a bad way to end
Sam Hubbard has announced his retirement.The Cincinnati native’s last play in the NFL was a touchdown reception from his college teammate and friend Joe Burrow.
What a great career at Ohio State and with the Bengals! pic.twitter.com/UocmxtjfV5
— The Silver Bulletin (@tSilverBulletin) March 5, 2025
Ohio man every step of the way
Great player… even better human being
One of the finest men I know closing an incredibly successful career today. I have known Sam nearly half his life. Our town & our state could not be more proud of one of our own, & all he has accomplished! As great as he was as a player, he is an even better man! @Sam_Hubbard_ pic.twitter.com/awBXmmeeyV
— Kerry Coombs (@DB_CoachCoombs) March 5, 2025
Buckeye for Life
This article originally appeared on Buckeyes Wire: Social media shows love to Sam Hubbard after announcing retirement
