Why a Reunion Between Alvin Kamara and Sean Payton Feels Unlikely for the Broncos in 2026
As the NFL offseason rumor mill kicks into gear, one familiar storyline is starting to resurface: Alvin Kamara reuniting with Sean Payton, this time in Denver. It’s a narrative that’s followed Payton since he took over as head coach of the Broncos three seasons ago. And while it makes for a compelling headline-Kamara, the versatile back who thrived under Payton in New Orleans, joining forces with his old coach again-the reality is far more complicated.
The latest spark came from a report suggesting the Broncos could potentially acquire Kamara from the Saints for a pair of late-round draft picks-possibly a sixth and seventh. On paper, that might look like a steal. But when you dig into the details, it becomes clear why this move may not make much sense for Denver.
Kamara's Contract and Health Raise Red Flags
Kamara is entering the final year of his deal and carries an $18.6 million cap hit in 2026. For a running back who just turned 30 and is coming off a season in which he missed six games with a sprained MCL, that’s a heavy price tag. He’s still one of the most talented dual-threat backs in the league when healthy, but availability has become a concern.
And while Kamara reportedly wasn’t looking to be moved at the trade deadline, the Saints might not have much choice now. With cap space tight and a deep free-agent running back class looming, New Orleans could be motivated to move on-especially if they can recoup even a late-round pick in return.
The Fit in Denver Just Isn’t There
From a roster construction standpoint, Denver’s backfield doesn’t exactly scream for Kamara’s skill set. RJ Harvey showed flashes of promise this past season, and while J.K. Dobbins is set to hit free agency, the Broncos are more in need of a physical, between-the-tackles grinder than another finesse back.
Kamara’s game has always been built on elusiveness, vision, and versatility-he’s a nightmare in space and a mismatch in the passing game. But at this stage of his career, he’s not the bruising, downhill runner Denver lacked late in the season. That missing piece arguably cost the Broncos a shot at making a deep playoff run.
Harvey, for all his upside, isn’t built to handle the dirty work between the tackles. And Kamara, at 31 next season, isn’t the answer to that problem either. What Denver needs is a younger, more physical back who can chew up yards in the fourth quarter and keep the offense balanced in high-leverage moments.
The Payton-Kamara Connection Is Real-but Not Enough
There’s no denying the connection between Kamara and Payton. The duo helped define one of the NFL’s most dynamic offenses during their time together in New Orleans. Kamara’s best seasons came under Payton’s watch, and there’s a certain logic in thinking the coach might want to bring a familiar face into a new system.
But sentiment only goes so far in the NFL. Payton knows better than most that building a championship-caliber team means making tough decisions-not nostalgic ones. And while Kamara still has something left in the tank, it’s hard to see him as the right piece for what Denver needs right now.
What’s Next for Kamara?
Kamara has made it clear he wants to finish his career in New Orleans, and unless the Saints decide to make a move, that’s still very much on the table. He’s been the face of their offense for years, and even with the injuries and the cap hit, there’s value in keeping a veteran leader in-house-especially one who can still contribute when healthy.
But if the Saints do decide to part ways, it’s more likely he ends up with a team looking for a complementary veteran presence, not one trying to build a new identity in the backfield.
Bottom Line
The Kamara-to-Denver rumors will probably continue to pop up until he retires or Payton moves on. But while the dots are easy to connect, the fit just isn’t there.
The Broncos need to get younger, tougher, and more physical on offense-especially at running back. Kamara’s résumé is impressive, and his legacy in New Orleans is secure.
But in Denver, the path forward likely leads elsewhere.