The New Orleans Saints have made a splash in the 2026 NFL free agency by signing Travis Etienne Jr., formerly of the Jacksonville Jaguars, to a four-year, $52 million deal. This move, however, raises a significant question: What does this mean for Alvin Kamara?
At the NFL owners meetings in Phoenix, head coach Kellen Moore addressed the situation head-on, providing some clarity on Kamara's standing with the team.
“He's certainly on the roster and part of the running back room,” Moore stated. “We feel fortunate that we were able to acquire Travis.
But there's a lot of work there to be had. … It's a great situation for us.”
Moore's comments, while straightforward, leave room for interpretation. Kamara is still with the Saints, but the phrase “a lot of work there to be had” suggests that the coaching staff is still contemplating how to structure the backfield for training camp.
Adding to the intrigue is the recent adjustment to Kamara's contract. Earlier in March, the Saints restructured his deal, freeing up $8.1 million in cap space for 2026 and creating an option for the team to part ways with Kamara more easily. This move wasn't just a routine financial maneuver; it signaled that the Saints might be preparing to either release or trade the five-time Pro Bowler.
Kamara, who turns 31 in July, is coming off a challenging season. An MCL injury limited him to 11 games in 2025, resulting in career-low stats of 471 rushing yards and a single touchdown. His receiving numbers also took a hit.
With Etienne expected to take the lead as the Saints' primary running back, Kamara's role, should he remain, would shift to that of a complementary piece-quite a change from his long-held status as the team's featured back. Moore pointed out that the roster has room for both players, highlighting the flexibility provided by depth pieces like Audric Estime.
For now, Moore is keeping all options open. But in New Orleans, the clock on Kamara's illustrious career with the Saints is ticking more audibly than ever.