Rocket Sanders explains embracing leadership role for Arkansas

The Arkansas Razorbacks are coming into the 2023 season with one of the most proven backfields in the country, led by quarterback KJ Jefferson and running back Rocket Sanders. In fact, Sanders was ranked by On3 as one of the 10 best running backs in college football.

While his on-field play is important, Sanders also knows that he needs to embrace a leadership role this season.

“Yeah, of course,” Rocket Sanders said. “It’s just a blessing to have that position, you know, but like from the jump coming in I’ve always been quiet.”

Sanders explained that he doesn’t plan on being the most vocal leader because that goes against his personality. Still, he’s going to be there for his fellow running backs to rely on and help them improve as a unit.

“So, I want to stay quiet for sure but, you know, definitely going to be there to help somebody next to me and somebody in front of me because I want to be great as a unit, not just me.”

That leadership is going to be important for Arkansas. Also important is going to be Sanders maintaining his offensive production in a new offensive system under Dan Enos. In 2022, he rushed for 1,443 yards and 10 rushing touchdowns. Finding a way to maintain that production is going to be vital for him and the Razorbacks.

Arkansas running backs coach Jimmy Smith has seen the changes that Rocket Sanders has made throughout his career. He explained that Sanders has worked hard to grow as a player.

“Bigger, faster, stronger,” Smith said. “I was kind of surprised because, honestly, we said a certain weight we wanted him to be at. I talked to him about it that, when you get to 235, you’ve got to lose muscle. He’s in great condition. Rocket is one of those guys who competes every day like he’s an eighth-string or something like that. He competes all the time, he goes hard all the time.”

Rocket Sanders credit the strength staff for Arkansas’ preparation

One thing that KJ Jefferson and Rocket Sanders are excited about this season is Arkansas’ team chemistry. Sanders pointed out that this preparation began with how the team and strength staff have worked together.

“It started with the strength staff,” Sanders said. “I feel like they keeping us accountable with time management. They put that on us. I feel like they came in big, came in handy as well.”