Fans of Arkansas Must Let It Go If Sanders Makes the Correct Decision
If the Razorback running back has his heart where it belongs, then all loyalty and resentment over his jersey number should be put aside.
Arkansas’s FAYETTEVILLE Fans of Arkansas appear to have been a little emotional these past few days. They’ve been set off by Raheim “Rocket” Sanders’s departure.
A portion of the complaints stems from the Razorbacks’ gamble in turning a player who many considered a receiver into a running back. Essentially, they believe that Sanders was made in Arkansas, and that he owes the state a debt of gratitude for his decision to stay on after declaring he would not be joining the NFL.
More discussion about the jersey comes up, and this is where Arkansas fans become extremely sensitive. Sanders was permitted to don the No. 5. Like the No. 7 at LSU, No. 5 has a particular place in the hearts of Arkansas supporters. Darren McFadden, a record-setting player from the turn of the century who was twice a Heisman finalist—including one season in which Razorback fans will go to blows over if they don’t think he was robbed—gave it its revered status.
Fair enough, a good portion of the base isn’t exactly sad that Sanders is going. The transfer portal and NIL years have dragged into history, and Razorback fans have learned to accept players leaving for personal gain.
Rather, their problem is dressing in the No. 5 jersey and then walking away. Many people who are depressing the atmosphere at the water cooler this morning would be in a better mood if Sanders had been No. 3 or No. 6.
Here’s the truth, though. A photo of Sanders’ son appears at the top of his social media profile. That’s the closest he’s been able to get during his time at Arkansas, save for a few days here and there. Should a man exist who, when presented with the chance to spend more time with his child, declines to do so, he is truly not a man at all.
Sanders now has the chance to decide that being there is the right decision. This offseason, he will have to make a tough decision at some point. It’s likely that he will be able to spend more time with his son while also having more money to ensure his future. Spend time with your son if he’s reading this and finding it difficult to make a decision.
Time and the fullness of your heart cannot be purchased with money. Furthermore, money cannot purchase the influence you will have on him through being a constant in his life. When the reason you are doing this falls into your lap and sees you as the provider and protector you are supposed to be, it is also simpler to find the motivation to put in the extra effort required and to push through trying times.
Regarding the people of Arkansas, it makes sense that they would initially feel offended. You will always respect what McFadden accomplished because he was the man on the field. But let’s give Sanders a chance to show that he’s the real deal off the field. Additionally, if he makes the right decision, he will have merited your unwavering respect for what he’s accomplished.
