Could Alvin Kamara Be the Missing Piece in Kansas City’s Backfield?
After nine seasons in New Orleans, it looks like Alvin Kamara’s time with the Saints could be nearing its end - and one potential landing spot has the football world buzzing: Kansas City.
There’s growing belief that the Saints may look to move the five-time Pro Bowl running back this offseason, and if that happens, the Chiefs make a lot of sense as a trade partner. The fit is clean, the need is real, and the upside? Potentially massive.
Let’s break this down.
Why Kansas City Makes Sense
The Chiefs have built their dynasty around Patrick Mahomes’ arm and Andy Reid’s offensive wizardry, but the backfield hasn’t exactly been the focal point. Isiah Pacheco has been a tough, downhill runner who brings energy and physicality, but when it comes to pass-catching versatility out of the backfield, that’s not his calling card. Enter Kamara.
Even at 30, Kamara brings a skill set that’s tailor-made for Reid’s offense - a system that thrives on mismatches and rewards backs who can run routes like receivers. Kamara may not be the same electric playmaker he was in his early years, but he’s still a savvy, multidimensional weapon who can punish defenses in space.
Mahomes hasn’t had a true dual-threat back since his early years with Kareem Hunt. Adding Kamara would give him a reliable outlet in the passing game, someone who can turn a checkdown into a chunk play and keep defenses honest in the red zone. It’s the kind of move that could add a new layer to an already dangerous offense.
What Kamara Still Brings to the Table
Let’s not forget: Kamara is just one season removed from nearly 1,500 scrimmage yards in 2024. His 2025 campaign wasn’t as productive, but that doesn’t mean he’s washed. In the right scheme - and with a quarterback like Mahomes - Kamara could easily bounce back.
He’s always been more than just a runner. His vision, patience, and ability to slip tackles make him a consistent chain-mover.
And when he’s lined up in the slot or motioned out wide, he forces linebackers into uncomfortable coverage situations. That’s where Reid could really get creative.
In Kansas City, Kamara wouldn’t need to carry the full workload. He’d complement Pacheco, not replace him. Think of it more as a 1A/1B setup - with Kamara providing the finesse and experience, and Pacheco bringing the power and burst.
Low Risk, High Reward
Another reason this potential move makes sense? Kamara’s contract.
He’s entering the final year of his deal, which means any team acquiring him isn’t locked into a long-term commitment. For Kansas City, that’s an ideal scenario: bring in a proven vet, see how he fits, and reassess after the season.
If the Saints are willing to eat some of the remaining money - and that’s still a big "if" - it becomes an even more attractive option for the Chiefs. They’d be adding a versatile offensive weapon without mortgaging their future or straining the cap.
A Win-Win Opportunity?
For New Orleans, moving Kamara could signal a shift toward a younger, retooled backfield. After nearly a decade of elite production, it might be time for the Saints to reset and build around a new core.
For Kansas City, it’s about maximizing the Mahomes window. Every season with No. 15 under center is a chance to compete for a title, and adding a player like Kamara - even if he’s not the same guy who once torched defenses for six touchdowns in a single game - could be the kind of subtle but smart move that pays off in January.
No deal is done yet, but if the Saints are truly open to moving on, and the Chiefs are looking to fine-tune their offense, this is one to watch. Kamara in Kansas City? That could be a problem for the rest of the league.