Alvin Kamara is the New Orleans Saints all-time touchdown leader and one of the top playmakers in the franchise’s history. He’s a fan favorite and crucial to Klint Kubiak’s new offensive system. Given the current state of the New Orleans franchise, it doesn’t seem logical to invest in an aging running back. A few issues are consistent salary cap “issues,” an aging roster, zero playoff appearances in three seasons, and the retirements of franchise legends Drew Brees and Sean Payton (who is currently coaching the Denver Broncos). Despite these different challenges, Kamara has been critical to the success of the New Orleans Saints.
Alvin Kamara’s Future in New Orleans: Extension or Exit?
Previous Extension
Kamara walked out on the final day of the Saints’ mandatory minicamp before practice to petition for a contract extension. In 2020, he signed a five-year, $75,000,000 contract with a $15,000,000 signing bonus and $33,833,000 guaranteed. The contract includes an opt-out after the 2024 season, and if he stays on the roster for the 2025 season, his cap hit will increase to $29,077,000. Alvin Kamara turns 29 on July 25th, when most running backs’ play deteriorates quickly. At the time of his extension, he was just behind Christian McCaffrey in terms of average annual value. His $15,000,000 per year average tied him with Ezekiel Elliot for the second-highest at that time. Most recently, the San Francisco 49ers extended McCaffrey with a two-year $38,000,000 that includes $24,000,000 guaranteed.
Recent History
In recent seasons, the team has shifted him into a more traditional running back role with little support. Like McCaffrey, he’s skilled in both running and passing. Klint Kubiak, son of former Super Bowl-winning coach Gary Kubiak, is introducing a new run-focused offense. It emphasizes a strong running game and uses play-action to take deep shots down the field. Since the 2020 season, he has played in 56 games, amassing 3,421 yards rushing, 27 rushing touchdowns, 262 catches, 2,151 receiving yards, and 13 receiving touchdowns. He ranks in the top ten in rushing production among running backs since 2020. Kamara also leads all running backs in catches in the same timeframe. His yards per rush have dropped over the past few seasons, but this was a direct reflection of the ineptitude of the offense and offensive line struggles.
2024 Outlook
Kamara is expected to play a crucial role in the team’s offensive strategy this season. The depth at running back for the Saints raises concerns with veteran Jamaal Williams and oft-injured Kendre Miller behind him on the depth chart. During a press conference after the first day of training camp, he expressed his desire to remain with the New Orleans Saints for the long term, stating, “I want to be a Saint. I want to retire here.” While the NFC South has seen overall improvement, the competition within the division remains fierce. It is imperative for the New Orleans Saints to fully utilize their talented roster and consider extending the contract of their star running back, Alvin Kamara. He is not just a player but has also emerged as the face of the franchise. Despite what recent history has shown with the value of running backs, it would be in the best interest of Kamara and the Saints to sign a two-year extension to allow him to finish his career as a New Orleans Saint.
Main Photo: [Kim Klement Neitzel] – USA Today Sports
