Carolina Panthers linebacker Kamu Grugier-Hill (54) hugs Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson as Carolina Panthers running back Miles Sanders (6) looks on after the game of a regular season NFL football matchup Sunday, Dec. 31, 2023 at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jacksonville Jaguars blanked the Carolina Panthers 26-0. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]
Carolina Panthers running back Miles Sanders is a prominent name on the trade market. Initially drafted in the second round by the Philadelphia Eagles, the Panthers invested heavily in Sanders following his 1,200-yard season in 2022. Unfortunately, he couldn’t replicate that success in 2023, averaging just 3.3 yards per carry and losing the starting job to Chuba Hubbard. With a new head coach and general manager, and after selecting Jonathon Brooks in the second round, it seems likely that Carolina will part ways with the veteran soon.
While Sanders didn’t pan out in Carolina, other teams may still be interested in trading for him. Though he may not regain his 2022 form, Sanders has shown he can be an effective starter and a valuable backup in the right system. Bleacher Report recently highlighted why the Colts should consider acquiring Sanders.
Colts Urged To Trade For Panthers Running Back Miles Sanders
The Colts are a logical destination for Sanders. Running back performance is heavily influenced by the supporting cast, and Indianapolis can replicate the environment that enabled Sanders to thrive in 2022. With former Eagles offensive coordinator Shane Steichen now the Colts head coach, a mobile quarterback in Anthony Richardson, and a reliable offensive line, all the conditions are in place to maximize Sanders’ potential.
The Colts wouldn’t trade for Sanders to make him the starter, as Jonathan Taylor remains the primary running back. However, with Taylor’s injury struggles and Zack Moss now in Cincinnati, the Colts need a dependable backup. Sanders could handle starting duties if necessary, providing stability for a team aiming to compete with a healthy starting quarterback.
While the Colts are a good fit, other teams might also be interested in trading for Sanders. The 2024 NFL Draft class lacked depth at running back, so a proven veteran like Sanders could attract interest.
Possible Destinations**
Las Vegas Raiders:** The Raiders have one of the weakest running back groups in the league. While Zamir White performed well in limited action, it’s uncertain if he can handle a full-time role. Sanders could add needed depth to this group.
Kansas City Chiefs:** The Chiefs have a solid starter in Isiah Pacheco but lack depth. With Clyde Edwards-Helaire underperforming, Sanders could thrive in Andy Reid’s running back-friendly system.
New York Giants:** With Devin Singletary set to replace Saquon Barkley, the Giants could use additional help. Sanders could share the workload and reduce the pressure on quarterback Daniel Jones.
Los Angeles Chargers:** Coach Jim Harbaugh prefers a run-heavy offense, but the Chargers’ current options are limited. Adding Sanders could provide valuable depth and complement the existing running backs.
Baltimore Ravens:** The Ravens have Derrick Henry as their lead back but need depth behind him, especially with Keaton Mitchell out. Sanders could be an effective backup, benefiting from the strong offensive line and Lamar Jackson’s dual-threat capabilities.
