Penn State RB Sanders to leave early, enter draft

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Penn State running back Miles Sanders will enter the 2019 NFL draft after leading the Nittany Lions in rushing yards as a junior.

Everything 1K 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/k67nDaUo5A

— Miles Sanders (@BoobieMilesXXIV) January 3, 2019

Sanders, who ran for 1,274 yards in the 2018 season, is considered the ninth-best running back prospect in this year’s draft, according to ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr.

“I want to start by saying this decision was not an easy one,” Sanders said in a written statement shared on social media. “I have so many people to thank for my experience here at Penn State and so much love for my teammates, coaches and the fans.”

Sanders took over as the leader of a talented running backs room in 2017 after the departure of former No. 2 overall pick Saquon Barkley.

He is one of five Penn State players who have declared their intentions to enter the NFL draft this week despite having the option to return for another season. Offensive linemen Ryan Bates and Connor McGovern made their announcements Wednesday, as did defensive linemen Kevin Givens and Shareef Miller.