The Dallas Cowboys have bolstered their backfield by signing former Pro Bowler Miles Sanders, who was recently released by the Carolina Panthers. The one-year deal adds depth to a team that lost its leading rusher, Rico Dowdle, to the Panthers this offseason. Despite a disappointing season with the Panthers, where he recorded career lows in rushing attempts and yards, Sanders will team up with free agent Javonte Williams to rejuvenate the Cowboys' ground game.

In his six-year career, Sanders has accumulated over 5,500 yards from scrimmage and 23 total touchdowns, including 1,244 receiving yards. The Cowboys are banking on Sanders' potential to alleviate pressure on quarterback Dak Prescott, hoping a reliable run game can lead to fewer forced passes and interceptions, following a troubling 14 picks last season. After a 7-10 record last year, the Cowboys are eager to improve and make a push towards the playoffs.

Miles Sanders is set to join the Dallas Cowboys on a one-year deal, marking a notable transition from the Carolina Panthers, where he spent the past two seasons. This signing comes on the heels of Rico Dowdle agreeing to terms with the Panthers, showcasing a significant player exchange within the NFC. Sanders had his peak season in 2022 with the Philadelphia Eagles, amassing 1,269 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns, contributing to their Super Bowl LVII run.

After a lucrative contract with Carolina worth $25.4 million over four years, injuries hampered Sanders’ performance, leading to career lows. The Cowboys now welcome him to potentially bolster their backfield, but questions arise regarding their draft strategy and whether they'll still seek additional running back talent. This dynamic may influence fantasy league strategies as players assess the implications of Sanders' move.

Miles Sanders, the former Carolina Panthers running back, is set to join the Dallas Cowboys on a one-year contract, marking a significant shift in his NFL journey. This deal comes shortly after the Panthers signed Rico Dowdle, a former Cowboy, suggesting a back-and-forth trade dynamic between the two teams. Initially, Sanders had signed a lucrative four-year deal worth $25.4 million with the Panthers but was released after playing just two seasons, during which he rushed for 637 yards and three touchdowns in 27 games. The Panthers sought to renegotiate his contract for 2025, but ultimately parted ways with the 27-year-old rusher before a $1 million roster bonus became due.

The Carolina Panthers are visibly concerned about the future of running back Jonathon Brooks, who has suffered two significant ACL injuries. Despite being a second-round pick, Brooks has seen minimal on-field action, with only 12 touches in his rookie season following a prior ACL tear. The franchise is leaning towards a cautious approach, potentially sidelining him for the 2025 season to ensure he returns healthy and confident for the 2026 training camp.

To further indicate their strategy, the Panthers have signed Rico Dowdle to a one-year deal. This move suggests that the team is preparing to focus on Brooks' long-term health rather than immediate production, as Brooks has had limited high-level playing time throughout his collegiate and early NFL career. The implications for his development and the team's plans raise questions about his future performance.

The Dallas Cowboys have been active in free agency, trading for cornerback Kaiir Elam from the Buffalo Bills and linebacker Kenneth Murray from the Los Angeles Chargers. These acquisitions aim to bolster the team's defense, especially after the injury to DeMarvion Overshown. Murray, a former first-round pick, had a career year with 95 tackles and 3.5 sacks last season. Elam, entering his fourth season, had a quiet year but brings potential alongside key players like Trevon Diggs.

In addition to these trades, the Cowboys secured return specialist KaVontae Turpin on a three-year deal worth $18 million, making him the highest-paid special teams player in the league. However, the team also faces losses, notably defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence, who signed a $42 million deal with the Seattle Seahawks. Lawrence has been a stalwart for the Cowboys but struggled with injuries last season. His departure, along with edge rusher Chauncey Golston to the New York Giants, raises concerns about depth on the defensive line.