The Carolina Panthers and general manager Scott Fitterer have dove into free agency, making a pretty nice-sized splash amidst an otherwise bustling pool. And they’re prepared to come out with running back Miles Sanders, who’s fresh off a career campaign with the reigning NFC champions.
Sanders was an explosive player in college for Penn State, playing behind star Saquon Barkley for two years before truly getting his chance to shine. In his junior season, he exploded for 1,413 yards from scrimmage and nine touchdowns—showing he had the capability to be a dual-threat home-run hitting rusher.
After landing close to home as a second-round pick of the Philadelphia Eagles in 2019, Sanders made an immediate impact as a rookie—posting 818 yards and three scores on the ground with 50 catches and 503 yards through the air. Though he’s never come close to that receiving production again in Philadelphia, that can generally be explained by him shifting into a more primary back role—giving way to pass-catching specialists in that department.
In 2022, Sanders was counted on as a true lead back and was able to maintain his health for the full season—toting the rock for career-highs in carries (259) yards (1,269) and touchdowns (11). He was the unquestioned No. 1 rusher for one of the most dominant ground attacks in recent memory.
Expect a similar type of role in Carolina, perhaps with some upside in the receiving game. Sanders’ combination of power running, elusiveness and pass-catching ability make him a true slam dunk of a signing for the price the Panthers paid to get him—and should help chip away at the production lost from the trade of Christian McCaffrey.
It is safe to say Sanders’ best days are ahead of him, and he will be counted on to withhold the “Keep Pounding” mantra as the new face of the Carolina running game.
