Panthers RB Miles Sanders Playing Week 1 vs. Falcons?

Carolina Panthers running back Miles Sanders provided an update on his availability for Week 1 in the team's game against the Atlanta Falcons.

After sustaining a groin injury in the early stages of training camp, Carolina Panthers running back Miles Sanders provided an update on his status for Week 1. 

During Tuesday's practice, Sanders was asked if he would be available for the Panthers' season opener against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sept. 10, and the running back confidently assured that he would be ready to go.

"Absolutely," Sanders said via ESPN.

Additionally, Panthers coach Frank Reich is not ruling out the possibility of the running back playing in the team's preseason finale against the Detroit Lions on Friday.

"TBD," said Reich.

Reich also emphasized the importance of Sanders returning to the team, as he believes the running back will bring another dynamic play-maker to Carolina's offense this season.

"We do feel like Miles [Sanders] has the opportunity and potential to be one of our playmakers," Reich said. "He's explosive. He's [a] dual threat. He's got long speed, he's got burst, he's got quickness, he's got good vision. That's why we went out and got him."

Reich and the Panthers demonstrated a strong desire to acquire Sanders during free agency. Despite a running back market that experienced a significant decline, Sanders secured a four-year, $25 million contract with $13 million in guaranteed money. This amount of guaranteed money was the highest given to a player of his position during the offseason.

As he prepares to embark on his first season with the Panthers, Sanders will seek to assist in guiding the team back to the playoffs for the first time since 2017.

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