Could Raheim Sanders Bring Power and Speed to the Giants’ Backfield?
The New York Giants have a solid foundation at running back. Tyrone Tracy has emerged as the likely starter after an impressive rookie season, and Devin Singletary provides reliability and versatility in most situations. However, the one missing element in their backfield is a true power back. While Tracy is the biggest back on the roster at 211 pounds, he lacks the physicality of a traditional bruiser.
If the Giants want to elevate their offense to an explosive, vertical attack, they may need a power runner who can force defenses to choose between stacking the box or defending the pass. Enter Raheim “Rocket” Sanders, a 6-foot, 230-pound prospect from South Carolina who could bring the perfect blend of size, strength, and surprising speed.
Who Is Raheim Sanders?

Nicknamed “Rocket” for his rare speed despite his size, Sanders began his college career at Arkansas, where he earned All-SEC honors as both a freshman and sophomore. He later transferred to South Carolina, showcasing a punishing running style paired with open-field explosiveness.
Measurables
- Height: 6-foot (estimated)
- Weight: 230 pounds (estimated)
Strengths
- Size and Strength: Sanders is built like a classic power back, with a sturdy 230-pound frame and the physicality to punish defenders.
- Speed: Despite his size, Sanders has impressive long speed, capable of outrunning linebackers and safeties once he gets into open space.
- Contact Balance: His ability to absorb and power through contact makes him a nightmare for defenders, particularly in short-yardage situations.
- Vision: Sanders has the patience and awareness to follow his blockers effectively.
- Receiving Ability: A reliable pass-catcher, Sanders has shown he can run clean routes and secure the ball before turning upfield.
- Pass Protection: He is a capable blocker, adding value in passing situations.
Weaknesses
- Quickness and Agility: Sanders is more of a linear runner, struggling with sharp cuts and quick changes of direction.
- Cutback Decisions: He occasionally tries to do too much, opting to cut back in search of big plays rather than taking the yards available.
Projection and Scheme Fit
Sanders projects as an ideal rotational back in a downhill rushing offense. While his lack of lateral agility limits his versatility, his ability to generate explosive plays makes him a valuable asset for certain systems. Some teams might view him as a Day 2 pick, while others could see him as a Day 3 prospect or even an undrafted free agent.
His game has drawn comparisons to players like Derrick Henry and Brandon Jacobs, thanks to his combination of power and speed. For Sanders to succeed, he’ll need to join an offense that emphasizes north-south running, with occasional opportunities to work on the perimeter through tosses or wheel routes.
Does Sanders Fit the Giants?
Absolutely. The Giants could benefit from Sanders’ power and ability to add a new dimension to their running game. Pairing him with Tracy and Singletary would give the team a more complete backfield, capable of complementing their vertical passing attack.
Final Word
Sanders has late Day 2 to early Day 3 value in the upcoming draft. If the Giants are looking for a back who can inject some “rocket fuel” into their offense, Raheim Sanders could be the answer.