Barry J. Sanders to Transfer from Stanford: Latest Details, Comments, Reaction

Former Stanford running back Barry J. Sanders will reportedly transfer this offseason.

Jacob Unruh of the Oklahoman reported on Tuesday that Sanders “has received his release to pursue transfer opportunities, and Oklahoma State is a school he is seriously considering.”

Sanders’ father, Barry Sanders, played at Oklahoma State before becoming one of the best running backs in NFL history.

Heisman Trophy finalist Christian McCaffrey broke the elder Sanders’ record for all-purpose yardage last season with 3,864 and could very well be the primary reason the younger Sanders is transferring. McCaffrey will once again be at Stanford in 2016, and he figures to be the Heisman favorite as well as dominate the touches in the backfield.

With McCaffrey as the primary focus for the Cardinal offense, Sanders finished 2015 with 315 rushing yards and four touchdowns for the Rose Bowl champions.

According to Unruh, “He was granted a release to any school outside of the Pac-12.” The running back didn’t seem too upset about the limitation, though: “Stanford is the best team in the conference. It wouldn’t make sense to go within the conference. I’m really unsure at this point, so we’ll just take it day by day.”

Sanders will graduate in June and did address the possibility of playing at Oklahoma State: “That's definitely an option. I have not been in contact with those guys yet, but I would like to see what they have to offer. Hopefully we can find some common ground.”

The Cowboys were seventh in the nation in passing yards per game this season but a dismal 114th in rushing yards per game. They still managed to finish as the country’s 14th-best scoring offense on the way to a Sugar Bowl appearance, but they could be much more potent with a consistent rushing threat.

Sanders could provide just that if he elects to transfer to his father’s old school.