Chuba Hubbard

Sanders made his return to the Carolina lineup after an extended absence due to an ankle injury and made the most of the opportunity as the team's lead back with Chuba Hubbard sidelined. Sanders, who scored the game-winning touchdown in overtime, had a 33-yard reception in the first half and later caught a short touchdown from Bryce Young -- one of Young's three throwing scores on the day. Sanders started 2024 in a competition for touches with Hubbard but was quickly relegated to breather back status before suffering the ankle injury. He had 200 rushing yards over 11 games while catching 24 passes. Sanders, 27, is signed with the Panthers through the 2026 season. Hubbard should retake his spot atop the Carolina backfield depth chart next year.

Sanders makes his return to an active roster now without both Chuba Hubbard and Jonathon Brooks, likely leaving him in line to serve as the lead back in the team's final game of the regular season against the Falcons. His ultimate workload likely depends on his level of health after working his way back from an ankle injury that forced a trip to injured reserve, but the Panthers should have every reason to continue with full effort as they work through the future of their franchise.