The Panthers have parted ways with running back Mile Sanders. According to reports the team and Sanders were in talks to restructure his four year $25.4 million contract, but when negotiations stalled Carolina decided to release the seven year veteran.
Sanders signed with the Panthers in 2023, coming off a career season in Philadelphia. Expectations were that he would be able to build on his impressive 1,269 total yards, in 2022, but the former Penn State standout never caught on and ultimately lost his starting job to Chuba Hubbard.
Miles’ release, along with a knee injury that’s expected to keep 2024 2nd round draft pick Jonothan Brooks sidelined for the entire 2025 season, means the Panthers are in the market for a new running back. As of Tuesday afternoon the only players on the roster at that position are Hubbard, Brooks and practice-squader Emani Bailey.
The Panthers could address their new vacancy through the draft or with one several free agent running backs still available including, JK Dobbins, Rico Dowdle, Kenneth Gainwell and Nick Chubb.
The ground game is important to Canales, so the role of backup to Hubbard is vital. The Panthers were hoping they’d get a dual rushing attack with Brooks, but with back to back right knee ACL injuries, there’s uncertainty about his recovery and long term health.
Although signing a free agent is a possibility, the Panthers could also address this void in the draft. Gems at running back can be found in mid to later rounds, or the Panthers could trade their 8th pick in the upcoming draft for more capital and select a guy like UNC’s Omarion Hampton late in the first or early in the 2nd round.
The good thing for the Panthers is that they have their #1 guy in Chuba, so that gives them more flexibility when looking for #2.
Panthers Free Agency Day Two Recap