Audric Estime Turns Heads in Breakout Game for the Saints
It hasn’t been the smoothest start to Audric Estime’s NFL journey, but on Sunday, the former Notre Dame standout gave the league-and the New Orleans Saints-a reason to take notice.
After being drafted by the Denver Broncos, Estime’s rookie season was derailed by injuries and ultimately ended with his release. That could’ve been the end of the story, but the Saints saw something worth investing in. And now, after weeks of getting acclimated, Estime is starting to look like the powerful, explosive back that tore through defenses in South Bend.
Making the Most of the Moment
In the Saints’ comeback win over the Tennessee Titans, Estime delivered his most impactful performance as a pro. He ran for a career-high 94 yards on just 14 carries-an impressive 6.7 yards per attempt. But it was his 32-yard touchdown run that truly stole the spotlight.
That score wasn’t just a stat-padding run-it was a statement. On a play that looked bottled up at the line of scrimmage, Estime powered through contact, shrugged off a would-be tackler, and turned on the jets. It was the Saints’ longest run by a running back since Alvin Kamara’s 40-yard touchdown on Christmas Day back in 2020.
For a team that’s been searching for a home-run threat out of the backfield, Estime’s burst and physicality offered something they haven’t seen in a while. He showed the kind of one-cut explosiveness and tackle-breaking ability that makes coaches sit up in the film room and say, “We need to get this guy more touches.”
A Glimpse at What Could Be
With just one game left in the Saints’ 2025 campaign, Estime doesn’t have a lot of time to make his case. But Sunday’s performance may have been enough to earn him a long look heading into the offseason.
The Saints are finishing the year with momentum and have clearly embraced a youth movement as part of their rebuild. Estime’s emergence fits right into that narrative.
He’s not just running hard-he’s running like a player who knows every snap could be his last chance to stick in the league. That kind of urgency, paired with his natural talent, is a powerful combination.
The NFL is full of stories where players bounce back from early setbacks. Estime’s path hasn’t been easy, but if Sunday was any indication, he’s got the tools-and now the opportunity-to carve out a real role in New Orleans. And if the Saints are serious about retooling their offense with young, hungry playmakers, Estime just made a compelling case to be part of that future.