July 16, 2026

Saints Maintain Star RB Alvin Kamara Amid Travis Etienne Jr. Signing

The New Orleans Saints enhanced their roster by signing former Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. to a four-year, $52 million contract during free agency in March. This action stirred speculation that veteran running back Alvin Kamara could be leaving, but such rumors proved inaccurate.

Kamara’s agent, Brad Cicala, confirmed a new contract had been agreed upon, aiming to ensure Kamara remains with the Saints for his entire career. Cicala emphasized, ‘Alvin’s goal, and the team’s goal, was for him to remain with the Saints and retire a Saint.’

Kamara, now 30, begins his 10th season with the Saints, who originally picked him in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft. A dynamic player, Kamara excels as both a runner and receiver, leading the franchise in career rushing yards (7,250) and touchdowns (61).

Despite this, Kamara’s 2025 season was his least productive, cut short by ankle and knee injuries. He managed 471 yards and one touchdown on 131 carries over 11 games, setting career lows.

With Etienne Jr. now part of the team, second-year head coach Kellen Moore will devise strategies for both players to contribute significantly. Kamara expressed confidence in this approach. He mentioned past successes sharing the field with talented players such as Mark Ingram and Latavius Murray, highlighting the benefits of having two skilled running backs as a threat to defenses.

The Saints’ offense now features other promising talents. Quarterback Tyler Shough was an NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year finalist. Rookie wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, drafted at No. 8 overall, joins star receiver Chris Olave to enhance the Saints’ prospects. In the NFC South, they aim to reach the playoffs for the first time since the 2020 season.

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