New Orleans Saints at a Crossroads with Alvin Kamara
New Orleans, La. -- The New Orleans Saints find themselves at a critical juncture regarding their star running back, Alvin Kamara. Kamara's future with the team remains uncertain after he skipped the final practice of minicamp last week, reportedly due to contract-related issues, according to his agent Brad Cicala.
Kamara, who did not attend OTAs this offseason, returned for mandatory minicamp, a routine he has followed for several years. Despite the upheaval, Kamara has expressed a desire to remain with the Saints for the long term. He is expected to be a focal point of the Saints' 2024 offense under the guidance of new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak.
Impressive Track Record and Role in the Team
Kamara has thrived in previous Saints offenses, catching at least 80 passes in each of his first four seasons and scoring double-digit touchdowns in 2017, 2018, and 2020. His versatility and playmaking ability make him a critical piece of the Saints' offensive puzzle.
Kubiak, who served as the San Francisco 49ers passing game coordinator last season, witnessed the success of running back Christian McCaffrey under his system. McCaffrey rushed for a career-high 1,459 yards, illustrating the potential benefits of Kamara playing under Kubiak's system. Comparisons between Kamara and McCaffrey are inevitable, especially considering their similar age and career timelines; Kamara turns 29 on July 25.
Running Back Longevity and Statistical Decline
According to the Roster Management System, running backs with at least four seasons of 100 rushing attempts peak at age 27, after which their yardage steadily declines. Rushing attempts also peak at this age, while rushing averages peak between ages 24-26. This statistical trend is significant when considering Kamara's future performance and the team's reliance on him.
Several external factors have contributed to Kamara's statistical decline. He was suspended for the first three games of the 2023 season for violating the league's personal conduct policy, which impacted his overall numbers. Additionally, the Saints grappled with offensive line issues and red zone struggles during the first half of the season.
Financial Implications and Contract Issues
Kamara's cap number of $18.55 million in 2024 is the highest on the team due to previous contract restructures in 2022 and 2023. While a restructure wouldn't provide Kamara with any new money, it would temporarily create cap space by converting a portion of his base salary into a signing bonus. This move would lower his cap number for the current year but increase it in future years.
If the Saints chose to release Kamara in 2025 without altering his contract, they could save anywhere from $18.9 million to $25 million against the salary cap. However, this figure is influenced by Kamara's inflated $22.4 million base salary for 2025, which would likely be addressed if he remains with the team. The Saints have about a month before they report to training camp in Irvine, California, to sort out these financial issues.
It's worth noting that Kamara missed five practices at the end of the 2020 offseason before receiving a new contract. He is currently signed through the 2025 season.
Quotes and Perspectives
Head coach Dennis Allen seemed unsure about Kamara's absence, stating, "I haven't had a chance to talk to him, so I'm not sure why he wasn't out here for the rest of practice."
Alvin Kamara, on the other hand, expressed his unwavering loyalty to the team, saying, "I want a lifetime contract. I want to be here forever." He added, "You look at the history of this offense, I'll just say it's good for the running back." Kamara's optimism about playing under Klint Kubiak is evident: "You watch some of the past offenses that Klint has been able to operate, and most recent, you look at Christian [McCaffrey] and what he was able to do. I'm excited for that."
Kamara also emphasized his personal approach, remarking, "I'm not a stat dude. I don't stack myself up against other guys. You talk about Christian and all, me and Christian talk. I enjoy watching him play. I enjoy when he's able to do the things he does. Personally, I enjoy when I'm having success. But I think my message has been the same since I've been here ... whatever's asked of me, I just do that."
Quarterback Derek Carr shared a memorable moment with Kamara, saying, "There was a play last year where I handed him the ball, and I remember I was like, 'Well that's not open.' ... I turned around, and he hit an explosive burst that I've never seen before. And when he showed up [at minicamp], I handed him the ball, and it just feels different."
Offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak has been in constant communication with Kamara, stating, "I have talked to him when he was here the last couple of days. He's been great, talked to him on the phone, even when he was gone [for OTAs]. We've been in constant communication."
As the Saints and Kamara navigate this critical period, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future of their star running back and the team's offensive dynamics.