The NFL is a business first and foremost, as players and fans are constantly reminded. As a result, fan-favorites are often released or traded from their teams, sometimes even after standout careers with an organization.
One former Pro Bowler found himself as one such casualty on Tuesday, according to one prominent league insider on Twitter.
“Miles Sanders released by #Panthers after both sides negotiated a restructure — which Sanders was willing to do — but they couldn’t agree, per source.,” reported ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.
Fans reacted to the news on social media.
“We are freed from the shackles of Ian Thomas and Miles Sanders. Dare I say we are a real organization again?” one Panthers’ fan wrote on Twitter.
“Miles Sanders off my team, Ian Thomas off my team, we got a Defensive Line, have Jaycee Horn the bag. We’re finally a serious team,” one fan added.
“Basically Sanders didn’t want to take as big a pay cut as was warranted by his play,” someone else wrote.
“A reworked contract seemed to make sense for both sides after J Brooks’ ACL injury late in 2024. Sanders, after his huge season finale in ATL, made it clear he knew his worth: “Just happy I got the opportunity to rock out, ball out and show why I shouldn’t be on the sideline,” another fan added.
It’ll be interesting to see where Sanders lands in free agency.
