Miles Sanders ready to 'get back to work,' eager to show what he can do and be for the Panthers
The Carolina Panthers, in a league that has attempted to devalue the running back position, invested four years and $25 million into former Philadelphia Eagles running back Miles Sanders. And when Sanders arrived for camp Tuesday, he appeared eager to prove the team's investment in him worth it. "I had a good run last year," […]
The Carolina Panthers, in a league that has attempted to devalue the running back position, invested four years and $25 million into former Philadelphia Eagles running back Miles Sanders.
And when Sanders arrived for camp Tuesday, he appeared eager to prove the team's investment in him worth it.
"I had a good run last year," Sanders said. "I am trying to get back to work with this new team and a new journey and work every day — take it day by day."
Sanders was brought in to be an every-down back. His last year in Philadelphia proved his most successful. Sanders rushed for 1,269 yards and collected 11 touchdowns. His efforts earned him a Pro Bowl. And he was a factor in the Eagles having a nearly unanswerable rushing attack. The Panthers hope he brings that same production to a position that has been a collection of interchangeable names since the Christian McCaffrey trade.
The good news heading into training camp is that Sanders is healthy. He's been healthy the entire offseason, granting him more time to acclimate to Frank Reich's offensive scheme and newcomer quarterback Bryce Young.
"I got straight to it into working out [after the Super Bowl]," Sanders said. "I am ready for what is to come."
Sanders also echoed a similar sentiment to what Young said regarding how the Panthers plan to approach the series of expectations placed on them by owner David Tepper and the world around the NFL.
"It's just focusing on the little things," Sanders said. "Taking it day by day. We are going to see how everything turns out."
Sanders also has an interesting perspective on the type of quarterback Young can be. In 2022, he played with another Alabama quarterback in Jalen Hurts. And with Young, Sanders sees a lot of the same leadership traits that have made Hurts a star in the NFL — a good omen for Young, who has the weight of the Panthers franchise on his shoulders.
"That boy is sharp, man," Sanders said. "I played with another Alabama quarterback in Philly, and all I can say is that them boys are sharp. I'm excited to see what he can do this year.
"If you're a dog, you're a dog."
Sanders appears ready to take on the challenge of being the Panthers' lead back. He has faith in Young and the organization, and in 2023, he's not focused on anything other than football. The way he likes it.
"It's a grind," Sanders said. "I'm looking forward to it."
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Feature image via Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports.
