Carolina Panthers running back Miles Sanders is one of the hottest names on the trade market. The former Carolina regime, a second-round pick of the Philadelphia Eagles, spent big on the running back after his 1,200 yards in 2022. Unfortunately, the Penn State product couldn’t replicate his success in 2023, averaging just 3.3 yards per attempt while losing the starting job for longtime backup Chuba Hubbard. With a new head coach and general manager selected in Jonathon Brooks in the second round, it appears it is only a matter of time before Carolina parts ways with the veteran.
Miles Sanders didn’t work in Carolina, but that doesn’t mean anyone will be interested in trading for him. He may never regain his 2022 form, but the running back showed that he can be an adequate starter and above-average backup in the right system. In a recent article, Bleacher Report detailed why the Colts should try to target Sanders.
Colts urged to trade for Panthers running back Miles Sanders
The Colts make a lot of sense as a trade destination for Miles Sanders. Running back production relies heavily on the supporting cast, and Indianapolis can recreate the environment that allowed Sanders to thrive in 2022. Former Philadelphia offensive coordinator Shane Steichen is now the Colts’ head coach, the team has a mobile quarterback in Anthony Richardson, and The offensive line is reliable. All of these factors should combine to bring out the best in the former Águila.
Of course, the Colts wouldn’t trade for Miles Sanders to make him a starter. Star running back Jonathan Taylor is firmly entrenched at the top of the depth chart, but the former All-Pro has struggled to stay on the field over the past two years. With Zack Moss now in Cincinnati, the Colts could use a reliable backup in case the injury reoccurs. Sanders should be able to handle the starting responsibilities for a team hoping to compete with its starting quarterback healthy once again.
While the Colts make a lot of sense, they probably won’t be the only team interested in a trade for Miles Sanders. The 2024 NFL Draft class lacked talent at running back, so a reliable veteran like Sanders should generate some interest on the open market.
Possible destinations
Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders arguably have the worst running back room in sports. Zamir White played well in small doses last year, but that doesn’t mean he can serve as a full-time starter. Alexander Mattison is proof of this, as the current Raider crashed and burned after becoming the RB1 of the Minnesota Vikings. Miles Sanders may not be the type of guy to get 300 touches, but the trade target can add some depth to this underwhelming group. Between these three and rookie Dylan Laube, they should be able to get by in 2024.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs have a solid starting running back in Isiah Pacheco and not much else. Clyde Edwards-Helaire is one of the worst first-round picks of the Brett Veach era, and no one wants to see Keaontay Ingram or Deneric Prince getting serious touches. Andy Reid’s scheme brings out the best in running backs, so perhaps Miles Sanders could have some resurgence in his career if he is acquired via trade.
New York Giants
Devin Singletary will replace Saquon Barkley, but the journeyman running back can’t do all that work alone. New York has bigger needs on its roster, but a trade for Miles Sanders shouldn’t require too much Draft capital or financial resources. Daniel Jones proved he shouldn’t be the focal point of any offense, so adding Sanders to the mix will lessen the burden on the beleaguered quarterback.
Los Angeles Chargers
Jim Harbaugh wants to run the ball early and often, but will have a hard time doing so with his current options. Gus Edwards is a regular journeyman, while JK Dobbins is coming off an Achilles injury. Miles Sanders might not be better than these two, but the Chargers could trade a late-round pick to see if Greg Roman’s running back-friendly scheme can get the best out of the former second-round pick.
The Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens have a superstar running back in Derrick Henry, but they could use more depth. Breakout 2023 star Keaton Mitchell won’t be returning anytime soon, meaning there’s a glaring void at the RB2 position. Henry is an every-down starter, but no human being can handle 100% of offensive carries. Miles Sanders should be able to find some success behind a strong offensive line and with defenses focused on Lamar Jackson’s running skills.
Feature Photo: Corey Perrine – USA Today Sports
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