Stanford RB Barry J. Sanders to pursue graduate transfer
Barry J. Sanders is leaving Stanford.
Sanders, the son of Oklahoma State and Detroit Lions great Barry Sanders, confirmed to The Oklahoman that he has received his release from Stanford and will pursue a graduate transfer. Sanders can transfer to any school outside the Pac-12, he said, and his father’s alma mater is “definitely an option.”
“I have not been in contact with those guys yet, but I would like to see what they have to offer,” Sanders said. “Hopefully we can find some common ground.”
Sanders was the backup to Heisman runner-up Christian McCaffrey this season, rushing for 315 yards and four touchdowns. He also rushed for 315 yards in 2014 and 42 yards and a score as a redshirt freshman in 2013.
After a standout career at Heritage Hall High School in Oklahoma City, Sanders, a four-star recruit, chose Stanford over Oklahoma State and a bevy of other offers.
With McCaffrey returning for his junior season, Sanders’ role was not expected to increase in his final season of college ball, so he wants to “explore his options.” He doesn’t mind Stanford restricting other Pac-12 schools from his release, either.
“Stanford is the best team in the conference. It wouldn’t make sense to go within the conference,” Sanders said. “I’m really unsure at this point, so we’ll just take it day by day.”
Sanders is on track to graduate from Stanford in June. He would then be able to join another program and participate immediately.
For more Stanford news, visit CardinalSportsReport.com.
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Sam Cooper is a contributor for the Yahoo Sports blogs. Have a tip? Email him or follow him on Twitter!
