Dave Canales Comments Spell the End for Miles Sanders in Carolina

The Panthers took a huge step towards ending Miles Sanders' tenure with the organization on Monday, signing former first-round RB Rashaad Penny to join a crowded backfield.

This move came not long after Carolina drafted Texas star Jonathon Brooks in the second round. Given that Chuba Hubbard wound up the lead back in 2023, it's hard to imagine how Sanders fits into this complex puzzle.

Taking a look at head coach Dave Canales' comments right after drafting Brooks, the skillset he prefers could leave Sanders on the outside looking in.

Dave Canales' Comments Indicate Carolina is Done With Miles Sanders

Canales praised Brooks' versatility and ability to handle screen passes and checkdowns. While Sanders had 509 receiving yards in his rookie campaign with the Eagles, he's failed to eclipse 200 yards in any season since.

Brooks, meanwhile, had 286 yards in only 11 games in 2023 while averaging 11.4 yards per catch. His dynamic athleticism will give the Panthers a boost offensively that Sanders can't match, and it may only be a matter of time before the organization moves on.

That being said, Sanders' contract is a difficult one to get out of this season. His $7.7 million cap hit is the fifth-most at the position, though he doesn't have any guaranteed money owed to him after this year. If Carolina can't find a trade partner before the season, they might wait to see if a player gets injured across the league and forces a team's hand.

In the meantime, it's obvious that Sanders is no longer in the Panthers' plans. Just one year after signing him to a four-year deal, the organization is giving the keys to other backs. It's a smart move to recognize a sunk cost, though the contract is difficult to stomach regardless.

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