Raheim “Rocket” Sanders: A Relentless Journey to NFL Stardom
Raheim “Rocket” Sanders has had a whirlwind of a week. The 22-year-old running back, now preparing for Thursday’s East-West Shrine Bowl at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, is making the most of every moment. Coming off a productive practice session earlier in the day, Sanders finds himself finally catching his breath at the team hotel in Frisco. But even as he reclines in a lobby chair, his focused demeanor is unshaken—Sanders doesn’t know how to take it easy.
“I’m more comfortable working out than sitting still,” Sanders said.
His teammates marvel at his dedication to building and maintaining his impressive 6-foot, 224-pound frame. “It’s something I want to do,” Sanders explained about his daily grind. “I don’t treat it as a job; it’s just part of my day.”
Sanders’ motivation runs deep. The nickname “Rocket,” earned during his Pop Warner days for his explosive speed, has become synonymous with his playmaking ability. But his drive isn’t just for personal glory—it’s for his family, especially his 3-year-old son, Raheim Jr., affectionately called R.J.
“I want it more for him, for my family,” Sanders said. “My mom, my son, my brothers—they’re my best friends.”
A Stellar Rise and a Year of Adversity
Sanders’ breakout season came in 2022 with the Arkansas Razorbacks, where he dominated as a sophomore, racking up 1,443 rushing yards, 271 receiving yards, and 12 total touchdowns. But in 2023, adversity struck. A torn labrum sidelined him for much of the season, limiting him to just six games and forcing him to undergo major surgery.
“2023 was my adversity year, for sure,” Sanders admitted. “I went from thinking I’d play three years and go straight to the NFL, but it wasn’t a regret year. It was a year of growth—as a man and in my faith with God.”
Post-surgery, the Rockledge, Florida native transferred to South Carolina to be closer to family and work under offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains, who implemented a pro-style offense tailored to Sanders’ strengths. Loggains, now head coach at Appalachian State, even used clips of NFL legend Frank Gore to inspire Sanders.
Like Gore, Sanders plays with a physical, bruising style. He’s not afraid to bulldoze defenders to earn extra yards—a trait that helped him shine in 2024.
2024 Comeback and Draft Appeal
In his first full season since surgery, Sanders roared back with 183 carries for 881 rushing yards, 27 receptions for 316 yards, and 13 total touchdowns in 12 games with the Gamecocks.
“Sanders finally looked fully healthy this year,” said Trevor Sikkema, lead NFL Draft analyst for Pro Football Focus. “At his size, we know he can generate force and play behind his pads for yards after contact. But what stood out was his one-cut ability and his knack for making defenders miss. If he continues to combine power with agility, his game will reach the next level.”
A veteran NFL scout, speaking anonymously, echoed these sentiments, praising Sanders’ growth within the South Carolina offense. “He got better as the year went on—a pivotal piece for their offense.”
A Chip on His Shoulder
Sanders carries a chip on his shoulder heading into the NFL Draft. He doesn’t know where he’ll land or if he’ll even hear his name called on draft weekend. But one thing is certain: he’s determined to reach the league.
“For me, it’s about showing my son I played at the highest level,” Sanders said.
As Sanders takes the field for the Shrine Bowl, the running back nicknamed after a projectile is gearing up for liftoff—his countdown to the NFL has officially begun.
