A struggling defense’s best friend is a great running game. The New Orleans Saints had this in mind heading into the 2017 off-season. Aside from a returning feature back in Mark Ingram, the Saints decided to not only sign former Minnesota Vikings All-Pro Adrian Peterson, but also draft an all-purpose back in Alvin Kamara. It goes without saying that the effectiveness of the Saints running back plan has not blossomed as expected.
New Orleans Saints Running Back Breakdown
The New Orleans Saints ranked 14th in the NFL in team rushing in 2016. So far in 2017, that number has taken a mind-numbing dip to 28th. The “Who Dat Nation” and fantasy football players are looking for answers as to why the results aren’t surfacing.
There are a few factors that play into this unfortunate lack of rushing success. During the off-season, the Saints starting left tackle Terron Armstead suffered a shoulder injury that has kept him out of the lineup thus far. To further compound issues on the offensive line, right tackle Zach Strief suffered an MCL sprain in game one of the season against the Minnesota Vikings, expecting to miss several weeks. Putting the protection issues aside, there doesn’t seem to be clear roles for the running backs on this new look Saints squad.
Here is what the production looks like so far from each of the three running backs for the New Orleans Saints.
Mark Ingram
Ingram surpassed the 1,000-yard rushing mark for the first time since Saints all-time leading rusher Deuce McAllister did it in 2006. Ingram looks to be the Saints number two all-time rusher this season with no signs of slowing down. Ingram runs with aggressiveness and still has the speed to turn the corner on outside carries. His superior pass-blocking skills and soft hands continue to make him the logical starter.
Ingram, thus far in 2017, has been the most productive back for the New Orleans Saints. He has amassed 71 yards rushing on 14 carries as well as 78 yards on nine catches. Ingram leads the bunch in rushing yards, yards per carry, receptions and receiving yards. He has clearly earned the lead role in the backfield. Feed the man.
Alvin Kamara
Kamara has quickly caught the eye of the New Orleans Saints, specifically head coach Sean Payton. Payton, who’s offensive imagination typically keeps defensive coordinators up at night, sees various roles for the diverse Kamara. Beside the typical single back set, up the gut rushing, which he can do, he is also exceptional in the passing game. Payton is adding additional value to Kamara by working him into special teams as a kick returner.
Through two games, Alvin Kamara has 21 yards on eight carries ,and 71 yards on seven receptions. Even when Kamara is not touching the ball, he is drawing attention away from other targets on passing downs.
Adrian Peterson
Here is where things get ugly.
The Saints may feel obligated to use Peterson considering both his hall of fame career and the contract he was awarded this off-season, but the production has not been there. Peterson, through two games, has accumulated 44 yards on 14 carries and no receptions. To be fair, Peterson has never typically been a high-reception type of back.
Peterson appears to be hesitant behind the line and seems to lack the burst to get around the corner on outside runs. His primary role, at this point, would seem to be short yardage situations. For these scenarios, the Saints have an option on the practice squad in Daniel Lasco. While the glitz of a name like Peterson sounds enticing to some, the results and the fit have not been there thus far.
To make matters worse, Peterson’s obvious public display of annoyance regarding his lack of opportunity during week one against his former Vikings squad has taken on a life of its own. The “I didn’t sign up for nine snaps”, mentality will only poison the team and lead to issues that this struggling bunch doesn’t need. If the market is there, move him.
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