The Panthers added a versatile threat in the backfield with the signing of running back Michael Roots. 

"We're getting a very good football player, "said Head Coach Darren Arbet.  "Michael is a complete back who does everything well.  His balance is exceptional."

In his final year at CSU Pueblo in 2021, Roots ran for 902 yards, averaging just under six yards a carry with seven rushing touchdowns to lead the team.  That year, he had four games of over 100 yards, highlighted running for 159 yards against Adams State. 

At his previous stop at Central Washington in 2019, Roots ran for 1500 yards at almost seven yards a rush with 14 touchdowns. After the season, Roots was ready for a new challenge.

"I wanted a fresh start and wanted to prove that I could play at any level," said Roots.  "I wanted to prove I could play in any conference and stand out."

Roots can be tracked down on social media by searching his nickname "Racecar Roots".

"I got the nickname in high school taking a touchdown to the house," said Roots.  "The announcer said, 'Oh man, he's as fast as a race car.'  Ever since then, people have been calling me 'Racecar Roots'.  It's followed me all through college."

As a senior at Luther Burbank High in Sacramento, Roots ran for 2,124 yards and 27 touchdowns.  He was twice named a Sacramento Bee All-Metro player and a senior earned second-team All Sac-Joaquin Section honors.