The Panthers have a new top running back in town, which could mean that Miles Sanders is on the trade block. Originally signed to a four-year, $25 million contract, the former Eagle had a season to forget during his first year in Carolina. Appearing in 16 games, Sanders averaged just 3.3 yards per carry and 5.7 yards per reception while losing his starting job to Chuba Hubbard midway through the season.
Trading up for Jonathon Brooks heavily implies that the Panthers do not believe their high-priced running back can turn it around. However, first-year General Manager Dan Morgan isn’t ready to publicly try and trade Miles Sanders, according to Joseph Person of The Athletic.
“We love Miles. We see a big role for him. He can do a lot for our offense. He’s versatile in the pass game and he’s a really good runner. So we’re excited for him, as well.”
Panthers General Manager Gives Update On Potential Miles Sanders Trade
It’s nice for Morgan to say he won’t trade Miles Sanders, but actions speak louder than words. Even though the general manager claims he wants Sanders to be a part of this offense, you don’t trade up to draft the top running back in the class if you’re happy with your starter. While Jonathon Brooks is coming back from an injury and might need some time to get up to game shape, Chuba Hubbard is the second back on this roster.
Miles Sanders currently carries a $7.69 million cap hit, but the Panthers can free up over $6.2 million if they trade him after June 1st. This is a lot of money to spend on a third-string running back, especially since the Panthers could probably find an undrafted free agent to put up similar numbers.
Chances are, Morgan is bluffing and would happily accept any offer for the former 1,200-yard running back. Miles Sanders won’t net much in a trade, but these teams might be willing to take him in for a conditional late-round pick swap.
Possible Destinations
Las Vegas Raiders
After losing Josh Jacobs to the Green Bay Packers, just about everyone believed the Raiders would use a mid-round pick on a running back. That didn’t happen, as the team waited until late on Day 3 to select New Hampshire’s Dylan Laube. Vegas believes Zamir White has what it takes to start, but they could use an insurance policy in case the added workload is too much for him. Miles Sanders will cost next to nothing in a trade and should be able to win backup work in this offense.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs have a solid starter in Isiah Pacheco, but they could use a better backup. Clyde Edwards-Helaire is the definition of a journeyman, and he’s the only other notable running back on the roster. Miles Sanders would provide some much-needed depth in a trade, and his pass-catching abilities should play better in Kansas City’s offense.
Los Angeles Chargers
Jim Harbaugh is all about running the football, but he doesn’t have the best collection of running backs. Gus Edwards is an unremarkable starter, J.K. Dobbins might not ever be the same following his ACL injury, and Isaiah Spiller has yet to prove he can play in the NFL. Edwards can handle early-down work, but Los Angeles should consider a trade for Miles Sanders if they want to upgrade the third-down back.
New England Patriots
It’s truly a new era in New England, as the Patriots have a clear, unquestioned starter at running back. Bill Belichick always loved to keep multiple starting-caliber backs, but the new regime appears content to roll with Rhamondre Stevenson as the clear leader. If New England wants some insurance, however, they should consider a Miles Sanders trade. Antonio Gibson hasn’t done much in recent years, and the former Panther could provide some competition for the backup job.
Tennessee Titans
It should go without saying that Tony Pollard cannot fully replace Derrick Henry. The 2023 season proved that the running back is better off in a complementary role, as the former Cowboys struggled to maintain his efficiency with increased opportunity. A Miles Sanders trade would limit the number of hits Pollard has to take and give Will Levis a checkdown option on passing plays.
Main Photo: Morgan Tencza – USA Today Sports
