Eli Sanders Declares for 2026 NFL Draft After Injury-Shortened USC Season

USC Trojans running back Eli Sanders has declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. He announced his decision via social media this week. This move follows a single season with USC that ended early due to a knee injury.

The veteran back spent five total years in college football across three different programs. His departure marks another shift for the Trojans’ backfield as they prepare for their upcoming bowl game.

A Winding Collegiate Journey Culminates in Draft Decision

Eli Sanders began his college career at Iowa State in 2021. He played three seasons for the Cyclones before transferring. His search for a larger role then led him to the University of New Mexico for the 2024 season.

That move proved successful. Sanders broke out with the Lobos, rushing for over 1,000 yards. This performance set the stage for his final transfer to the prestigious USC program. According to ESPN, he was viewed as a key offensive addition for the Trojans’ 2025 campaign.

His time at USC was ultimately cut short. Sanders suffered a significant knee injury after appearing in just six games. He finished his college career with over 2,000 total rushing yards and 15 touchdowns on the ground.

USC’s Running Back Depth Chart Adapts for the Future

Sanders’ draft declaration adds to the changes in USC’s running back room. The Trojans also saw backup Bryan Jackson enter the transfer portal this offseason. This leaves notable gaps behind the returning leaders.

Fortunately for USC, walk-on King Miller emerged as a star. He took over after Sanders and starter Waymond Jordan were injured in October. Miller rushed for 873 yards and will return next season as a cornerstone of the offense.

Waymond Jordan, the other injured starter, has also decided to return for 2026. This gives Coach Lincoln Riley a proven one-two punch. The team’s immediate focus remains on the Alamo Bowl against TCU on December 30th.

Eli Sanders now turns his focus to NFL pre-draft workouts and recovery. His proven production, when healthy, will be his biggest selling point to professional scouts. The 2026 NFL Draft will reveal the next chapter for the seasoned running back.

Thought you’d like to know

Where is Eli Sanders expected to be drafted?

Current projections are uncertain due to his recent injury. His draft stock will heavily depend on his medical evaluations and performance at USC’s Pro Day. Mid to late rounds are a reasonable expectation.

What was Eli Sanders’ injury at USC?

Sanders sustained a season-ending knee injury during the 2025 campaign. Specific details about the ligament damage have not been publicly released by USC Athletics. He missed the final six games of the season.

Who will be USC’s starting running back now?

With Sanders departing, King Miller and Waymond Jordan are the top returners. Miller, who excelled as a walk-on, is the likely lead back heading into 2026 spring practices. Jordan provides experienced depth.

How did Sanders perform at New Mexico?

He had his best collegiate season there in 2024. Sanders rushed for 1,063 yards and scored nine touchdowns for the Lobos. That breakout year directly led to his transfer opportunity with USC.

How many years of eligibility did Sanders have left?

He had exhausted his college eligibility. Sanders utilized a COVID-19 waiver year, giving him five total seasons of play across Iowa State, New Mexico, and USC.