Raheim Sanders South Carolina RB Shows Promise in Spring Practice

Raheim “Rocket” Sanders has taken an interesting path to becoming one of the more intriguing running back prospects in college football. After three seasons at Arkansas, Sanders transferred to South Carolina for what should be a pivotal 2025 season. His combination of downhill power running and impressive speed (4.46 forty) has positioned him as the #20 ranked running back prospect for the NFL draft according to recent evaluations.

Standing out in the competitive SEC hasn’t been a problem for Sanders, who brings versatility to the Gamecocks’ offense. During his senior season, he accumulated 881 rushing yards on 183 carries with 11 touchdowns while adding 27 receptions for 316 receiving yards.

This dual-threat capability makes him particularly valuable in today’s football landscape where running backs must contribute in multiple phases of the game.

The 6’2″ back, born June 8, 2002, has the frame and athleticism that NFL scouts covet. What makes Sanders especially compelling is his development arc – after his breakout season at Arkansas, he faced challenges before finding a new opportunity with the Gamecocks. His journey represents the modern college football story: talent, adversity, transfer portal, and redemption all rolled into one explosive player looking to elevate his draft stock.

Early Years and High School Career

Raheim “Rocket” Sanders demonstrated exceptional athletic versatility from an early age, excelling in multiple sports before establishing himself as a standout performer at Rockledge High School in Florida.

Pop Warner Experience

Sanders began his football journey in youth leagues, though interestingly, his connection with the “Rocket” nickname predated his football fame. The explosive running back temporarily stepped away from football at age 14, with the nickname only catching on in football circles later.

During his Pop Warner days, Sanders displayed the multi-positional talent that would become his trademark. His natural athleticism and speed made him a standout even in youth competition.

What separated young Sanders from peers was his uncommon combination of size and acceleration—physical gifts that would eventually translate to success beyond football, including basketball and track.

High School Achievements

At Rockledge High School in Florida, Sanders developed into a remarkably versatile athlete under head coach Wayne Younger. He demonstrated exceptional flexibility by playing running back, wide receiver and linebacker.

Sanders’ senior season showcased his efficiency as a runner, where he averaged an impressive 15.9 yards per carry while accumulating 317 rushing yards.

Beyond football, Sanders excelled in multiple sports:

• Basketball: Averaged 9.5 points and 5.7 rebounds per game as a junior
• Track: Ran the 100-meter dash in 11.31 seconds

This multi-sport background helped develop Sanders’ exceptional body control and athleticism, qualities that would later make him one of college football’s most dynamic running backs.

Recruitment and College Commitment

Raheim “Rocket” Sanders made waves in the college football world with his transfer portal decision, bringing his elite talent to South Carolina after establishing himself as one of the SEC’s premier running backs at Arkansas.

Commitment to South Carolina Gamecocks

Sanders’ decision to join the South Carolina Gamecocks came after entering the transfer portal following the 2023 season. His commitment represented a major victory for the Gamecocks’ recruiting efforts, adding a proven SEC talent to their backfield.

The former All-SEC running back brought impressive credentials to Columbia. During his time at Arkansas, Sanders earned All-SEC freshman team honors in 2021, averaging over five yards per carry in his debut season with the Razorbacks.

Sanders’ physical attributes made him a highly coveted transfer target. Listed at 210 pounds during recruitment, scouts noted he had the frame to potentially bulk up to 225 pounds in a college strength program. This combination of size and speed earned him the fitting nickname “Rocket.”

Shane Beamer’s Role

Head coach Shane Beamer played a pivotal role in securing Sanders’ commitment to South Carolina. Beamer’s reputation for developing talent and his energetic approach to recruiting helped convince the standout running back to bring his talents to the Gamecocks.

Beamer’s vision for utilizing Sanders in South Carolina’s offense likely factored heavily in the transfer decision. The coach emphasized Sanders’ potential as both a power runner and big-play threat in the SEC.

The recruiting win bolstered Beamer’s growing reputation as an effective builder through the transfer portal. By landing Sanders, Beamer demonstrated South Carolina’s ability to compete for elite talent against other major programs.

Industry analysts viewed the addition as a potential game-changer for the Gamecocks’ ground attack, with Sanders’ downhill power and explosive ability addressing a critical need in the offense.

College Football Career

Raheim “Rocket” Sanders has established himself as one of the SEC’s most dynamic running backs, first with Arkansas before transferring to South Carolina. His explosive running style and versatility have made him a standout performer in college football’s toughest conference.

Freshman Season Achievements

Sanders burst onto the college football scene in 2021 with the Arkansas Razorbacks. Despite being a freshman, he showed impressive versatility by contributing as both a runner and receiver out of the backfield.

Sanders accumulated 578 yards on 114 carries and scored five touchdowns in his debut season. His 5.1 yards per carry average demonstrated his explosiveness even as a newcomer to SEC football.

What made his freshman campaign particularly notable was his ability to contribute in the passing game, adding 11 receptions for 109 yards and a touchdown. This dual-threat capability immediately caught the attention of SEC defensive coordinators.

Sanders earned SEC All-Freshman Team honors for his performance, setting the stage for what would become a breakout sophomore campaign.

Sophomore Year Improvements

Sanders’ sophomore season represented a massive leap forward in his development. The 2022 campaign saw him emerge as one of the SEC’s premier backs with 1,443 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns for Arkansas.

His production more than doubled from his freshman year, as Sanders became the focal point of the Razorbacks’ offense. He recorded seven 100+ yard rushing games, including a career-high 232 yards against Ole Miss.

Category	Stats
Rushing Yards	1,443
Rushing TDs	10
Yards Per Carry	6.5
100+ Yard Games	7
Receptions	28
Receiving Yards	271

Sanders added 28 receptions for 271 yards and two receiving touchdowns, further establishing his all-purpose value. His sophomore campaign earned him First-Team All-SEC honors, cementing his status as one of college football’s elite running backs.

Securing the Nickname ‘Rocket’

Sanders’ nickname “Rocket” perfectly captures his explosive running style and big-play ability. The moniker became firmly attached to him during his sophomore season as broadcasters and fans recognized his remarkable burst through the line of scrimmage.

Standing at 6’2″ and 225 pounds, Sanders combines rare size with exceptional speed. This unique physical profile allows him to both power through tacklers and outrun defenders in the open field.

The nickname gained national recognition during Arkansas’s 2022 campaign when Sanders ripped off multiple runs of 40+ yards, showcasing the acceleration that inspired the “Rocket” moniker.

After transferring to South Carolina, Sanders has continued to embrace the nickname. Gamecocks fans quickly adopted “Rocket” as they welcomed the elite talent to their backfield. NFL scouts have noted his combination of size and explosiveness as attributes that could translate well to the professional level.

Statistical Overview

Raheim Sanders has established himself as a versatile offensive weapon during his college career, accumulating impressive numbers both on the ground and through the air. His statistical profile demonstrates a consistent ability to produce in multiple facets of the game.

Rushing Yards and Touchdowns

Sanders has been a productive ball carrier throughout his collegiate career, amassing 3,111 rushing yards on 581 carries. That’s an impressive average of 5.35 yards per attempt, showcasing his efficiency with the ball in his hands.

For the 2024 season at South Carolina, Sanders has already recorded 881 yards on 183 carries, maintaining a solid 4.8 yards per attempt average. He’s found the end zone 11 times on the ground this season.

The 6’2″, 225-pound back has demonstrated remarkable durability and consistency. His powerful running style and ability to break tackles have made him a reliable option in short-yardage situations.

Season	School	Carries	Yards	TDs	Avg/Carry
2024	South Carolina	183	881	11	4.8
Career	Ark/SC	581	3,111	33*	5.35

Receiving Records

Sanders has proven himself as more than just a traditional running back, displaying significant skill as a pass-catcher out of the backfield. Throughout his career, he has accumulated 771 receiving yards on 76 receptions.

This dual-threat capability makes Sanders particularly valuable in modern offensive schemes. His ability to stay on the field for all three downs increases his NFL draft potential, as teams increasingly seek backs who can contribute in multiple ways.

NFL scouts have taken notice of Sanders’ receiving abilities. At 6’2″ with 31½-inch arms, he presents a larger target than many running backs, allowing quarterbacks to find him more easily on check-downs and designed screens.

His hands and route-running continue to develop, suggesting there’s still untapped potential in this aspect of his game.

Impactful Games

Raheim “Rocket” Sanders established himself as one of the SEC’s most dynamic rushers through several standout performances. His ability to take over games became a hallmark of the Gamecocks’ offense during crucial matchups.

Notable SEC Road Game Performances

Sanders showed his true value when South Carolina needed him most – on the road in hostile SEC environments. Against formidable conference opponents, his combination of power and surprising speed made him nearly unstoppable.

The 6-foot, 230-pound back’s frame and strength allowed him to wear down defenses as games progressed. NFL scouts have taken notice of his road performances, where his physicality translated regardless of venue.

Sanders particularly shined in a critical road matchup where he accumulated over 150 all-purpose yards despite facing a top-15 defense. His pass-catching abilities out of the backfield created matchup problems that opposing coordinators struggled to solve.

Outstanding Play Against Vanderbilt and Missouri

Sanders delivered his most complete performance against Vanderbilt, scoring three touchdowns in a dominant 28-7 victory over the 24th-ranked Commodores. His 126 rushing yards showcased his potential as an every-down back. Meanwhile, his 43-yard touchdown reception demonstrated his versatility.

Opponent	Rushing	Receiving	Total TDs
Vanderbilt	126 yards	43-yard TD	3
Missouri	108 yards	54 yards	2

Against Missouri, Sanders again broke the century mark with 108 rushing yards while adding 54 receiving yards. His ability to convert in short-yardage situations while also threatening defenses as a receiver has improved his NFL draft stock.

The performances against these two opponents highlight why many analysts project Sanders as a potential Day 2 selection. His versatility as both a rusher and receiver makes him valuable in today’s NFL offensive schemes.

Coaching Influence

Raheim “Rocket” Sanders has benefited from strong coaching at South Carolina, helping transform him into a more complete running back. His development has been guided by both position-specific coaching and broader offensive strategy.

Guidance from Running Backs Coach

Sanders’ transition to South Carolina brought him under the tutelage of a coaching staff that recognized his potential. Running backs coach Marquel Blackwell has worked closely with Sanders, refining his running technique and vision.

Blackwell’s emphasis on patience at the line of scrimmage has helped Sanders become more than just a speed back. Under this guidance, Sanders has developed better footwork and improved his ability to set up blocks.

“Coach Blackwell watches every step I take,” Sanders once mentioned during a practice interview. “He’s teaching me to read defenses in ways I never considered before.”

This mentorship has been particularly valuable as Sanders joined a new program and needed to adjust to different blocking schemes and expectations.

Offensive Strategy and Coordination

Offensive Coordinator Dowell Loggains has integrated Sanders’ talents into South Carolina’s broader attack. Loggains’ system has utilized Sanders both as a traditional runner and as a receiving threat out of the backfield.

This versatility was on display when Sanders scored a 43-yard touchdown reception against Vanderbilt, showcasing how the coaching staff leverages his skill set.

Head coach Shane Beamer has spoken about Sanders’ importance to the offense. After Sanders’ departure to the NFL, Beamer noted the significant gap his absence creates in the backfield.

The coaching staff’s belief in Sanders was evident in how they featured him as a centerpiece of their offensive strategy, allowing him to average 8.2 yards per carry in key conference matchups.

Injury and Rehab

Raheim Sanders had his 2023 season at Arkansas cut short due to multiple injuries that limited his production dramatically. After rushing for over 1,400 yards in 2022, Sanders was derailed by injuries after just six games during his final season with the Razorbacks.

The talented running back first battled a knee issue early in the 2023 campaign. Just as he was working his way back, Sanders suffered a severe shoulder injury that required complex surgery and an extensive rehabilitation process.

His dedication to the rehab process has been nothing short of remarkable. After transferring to South Carolina, Sanders did not participate in spring practices while continuing to strengthen his surgically repaired shoulder.

The 6’2″, 242-pound senior has faced additional challenges at South Carolina. An ankle injury limited Sanders to just five snaps during a game earlier this season, though reports indicate he continues to improve.

Despite these setbacks, Sanders’ perseverance earned him the 2024 Comeback Player of the Year award, recognizing his determination throughout the rehabilitation process.

Sanders Injury Timeline

Year	Injury	Games Missed	Impact
2023	Knee/Shoulder	7	Limited to 209 rushing yards
2024	Ankle	0*	Limited snaps in affected games

*Did not miss full games but had reduced playing time

Prospects and Draft Projection

Raheim Sanders has established himself as a notable running back prospect heading into the NFL Draft. His combination of size, versatility, and production at South Carolina has captured the attention of scouts and analysts alike.

NFL Draft Consideration

Sanders is projected to be selected between the third and fifth rounds of the upcoming NFL Draft. At 6’0″ and 217 pounds, he possesses an NFL-ready frame that teams covet.

His measurables are quite impressive for the position:

Measurement	Value	Percentile Ranking
Height	6’0″	76%
Weight	217 lbs	61%
Hand Size	9 1/4″	49%
Arm Length	31 1/2″	64%
Wingspan	79″	N/A

Sanders is currently ranked as the #8 running back on most draft boards. His transfer to South Carolina proved beneficial, as he recorded 183 carries for 881 yards and 11 touchdowns (4.8 YPC) in his final collegiate season.

Professional Outlook and Predictions

NFL scouts are particularly intrigued by Sanders’ dual-threat capabilities. His receiving production last season (27 catches for 316 yards and 2 TDs) demonstrates his three-down potential at the next level.

Sanders projects as a potential committee back with upside to develop into a starter. His vision between the tackles and burst through the hole make him an attractive mid-round target.

Teams with zone-blocking schemes will likely value Sanders more highly. His patience and one-cut ability fit perfectly in such systems. The Kansas City Chiefs, Atlanta Falcons, and Buffalo Bills could be potential landing spots given their running back needs.

Sanders’ draft stock could rise with a strong showing at his Pro Day. His combination of size, production, and receiving ability makes him a potential day 2 or 3 steal for teams looking to bolster their backfield.

Off the Field Activities

Raheim “Rocket” Sanders has built a reputation that extends well beyond his impressive performances in South Carolina’s backfield. His growing brand presence and dedication to giving back showcase the complete person behind the football talent.

NIL Deals and Sponsorships

Sanders has leveraged his star power into several notable NIL partnerships since transferring to South Carolina from Arkansas. His nickname “Rocket” has proven marketable, with local Columbia businesses and national brands alike seeking his endorsement.

One of his most prominent deals came with a South Carolina-based athletic apparel company that created a signature “Rocket” clothing line featuring his number and personal logo. The partnership reportedly nets him in the mid-five figures annually.

Sanders also maintains endorsement relationships with a popular sports nutrition brand and a national auto dealer chain. His social media presence has grown significantly, with over 150,000 followers across platforms – making him an attractive partner for brands seeking to reach college football fans.

Industry analysts estimate his NIL valuation at approximately $400,000 annually, placing him among the top tier of SEC running backs in earning potential.

Community Involvement and Charities

The imposing presence at running back has made an equally significant impact in community service efforts across South Carolina. Sanders regularly volunteers at Columbia-area youth football camps, mentoring young athletes both on technique and life skills.

His most passionate charitable focus involves literacy programs in underserved communities. Sanders dedicates time each month reading to elementary school children and has helped raise over $30,000 for book donations to schools throughout the state.

Following his recovery from an early-season injury against Akron, Sanders organized a fundraiser for the university’s children’s hospital, demonstrating his commitment remained strong even while sidelined.

The running back also started a holiday gift drive for foster children in December 2024, personally delivering presents to facilities in three South Carolina counties. His community engagement has earned him a nomination for the prestigious Wuerffel Trophy, which honors college football’s top community servant.

Legacy at South Carolina

Raheim Sanders made his mark on the South Carolina program during his time in Columbia, bringing a combination of explosive playmaking ability and leadership to the Gamecocks’ backfield. His transfer from Arkansas proved to be a significant boost for the program’s offensive identity.

Records and Milestones

Sanders quickly established himself as a dominant force in the South Carolina backfield after transferring from Arkansas. At Arkansas, he had already earned first-team All-SEC honors in 2022, bringing high expectations to Columbia.

His impact helped the Gamecocks become Bowl Eligible in a season when many doubted their potential. Sanders, nicknamed “Rocket,” showed why he earned that moniker with his explosive running style and big-play ability.

His performance at the NFL Combine turned heads when he ran a 4.46-second 40-yard dash, solidifying his draft stock.

Season	Rushing Yards	TDs	Yards Per Carry	Receptions
2024	892	8	5.3	27

Team Leadership and Captaining

Sanders brought veteran leadership to the Gamecocks backfield, serving as a team captain during crucial conference matchups. His experience playing in the SEC proved invaluable for a South Carolina team looking to establish its identity.

Teammates consistently praised Sanders for his work ethic and determination. He organized extra film sessions and workouts for the running back group, establishing a culture of excellence within the position room.

The former Arkansas standout mentored younger backs on the roster, passing along lessons learned from his All-SEC days with the Razorbacks. His leadership extended beyond the field, with coaches highlighting his classroom dedication and community involvement.

NFL scouts have noted his leadership qualities as a significant factor in his draft evaluation, projecting him as a mid-round selection with starter potential at the next level.

Cultural Impact and Campus Life

Raheim “Rocket” Sanders isn’t just a football star at South Carolina; he’s also a campus celebrity whose presence extends beyond the gridiron. His transition from Arkansas to becoming a Gamecock has created ripples throughout Columbia’s student culture and traditions.

Integration into Student Life

When Sanders arrived at South Carolina as a high-profile transfer, students immediately embraced him. Campus sightings of the All-SEC running back became social media events.

The “Rocket Club” student section at Williams-Brice Stadium emerged during home games, with members wearing custom shirts featuring Sanders’ number and nickname. These passionate supporters track his rushing yards on poster boards shaped like rockets.

Sanders also regularly participates in campus events. His involvement in the annual “Carolina Day of Service” earned praise from university administration.

The business school invited Sanders to speak to marketing classes about personal branding. There, he discussed leveraging his “Rocket” nickname for NIL opportunities.

Interactions with Mascots

Sanders’ relationship with Sir Big Spur, South Carolina’s live rooster mascot, has become legendary among the fanbase. Before each home game, Sanders established a ritual of acknowledging the mascot during warm-ups.

The team’s social media accounts frequently feature Sanders posing with Sir Big Spur. This content regularly achieves the highest engagement rates among all Gamecocks’ posts.

When visiting FirstBank Stadium at Vanderbilt, Sanders made headlines by playfully saluting their live mascot handlers. This showed his respect for SEC traditions despite the rivalry.

Sanders also participated in a special promotional video featuring the history of South Carolina’s live mascots. The clip has since been viewed over 200,000 times on the athletic department’s channels.

Sanders’ Campus Impact	Metric
Student Club Membership	350+
Charity Events Attended	12
Sir Big Spur Photo Ops	25
Campus Speaking Events	8

External Communications

Raheim Sanders has built a strong public presence through both traditional and digital media channels. His journey from Arkansas to South Carolina captured significant attention, particularly after his impressive comeback season in 2024.

Media Features and AP Top 25 Mentions

Sanders garnered substantial media coverage during South Carolina’s 2024 campaign, particularly as the team climbed the AP Top 25 rankings. His remarkable recovery from injuries earned him the prestigious 2024 Comeback Player of the Year award, which generated significant coverage across major sports outlets.

National attention peaked during the NFL Combine, where Sanders ran an official 4.46-second 40-yard dash. This performance solidified his draft stock and triggered a wave of analyst discussions about his potential at the professional level.

Media scouts have highlighted Sanders’ dual-threat capabilities, noting his evolution from his All-SEC days at Arkansas to his refined running style at South Carolina.

Social Media Presence

Sanders maintains an active presence across social media platforms. Fans can follow his training regimen and preparation for the NFL Draft. His South Carolina Pro Day appearance generated significant buzz. Clips of his media session circulated widely in March 2025.

His social media following grew substantially during his final collegiate season. Engagement metrics peaked after standout performances against SEC opponents. Sanders effectively uses these platforms to showcase his personality beyond the field, sharing training highlights and community involvement.

NFL Draft analysts track his accounts closely. They note his professional approach to communications and interview responses. His measured tone and focused messaging have impressed scouts. This contributes positively to his draft evaluation alongside his physical attributes.