New Orleans Saints Sign Travis Etienne Jr., Keep Alvin Kamara

The New Orleans Saints have made headlines with their strategic moves in free agency. In March, they signed former Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. to a four-year contract worth $52 million. Speculation arose regarding Alvin Kamara’s future with the team, but these rumors have been dismissed.

On July 15, Mike Garafolo reported that Kamara’s agent, Brad Cicala, confirmed an agreement on a new contract for the veteran running back. “Alvin’s goal, along with the team’s, was for him to remain with the Saints and retire a Saint,” said Cicala.

Kamara, now 30, is entering his tenth NFL season since being drafted by the Saints in 2017. This five-time Pro Bowler has established himself as one of the league’s most versatile backs, excelling as both a runner and a receiver. He holds the Saints’ records for career rushing yards at 7,250 and career rushing touchdowns at 61.

Last season was challenging for Kamara, who experienced his least productive year. His 2025 season ended prematurely in Week 12 due to injuries to his ankle and knee. He accumulated 471 yards and one touchdown on 131 carries across 11 games, marking career lows.

With the arrival of Etienne Jr., the responsibility for outstanding performance now shifts. Head coach Kellen Moore is expected to utilize Kamara’s skills effectively, creating opportunities for him to contribute significantly to the team.

Kamara expressed confidence in the team’s approach during the Saints’ organized team activities, as reported by ESPN’s Katherine Terrell. “We’ve done it here before,” he said. Kamara cited examples of previous successful partnerships, stating that having two talented backs is advantageous. “It benefits each back. You don’t have defenses focusing on one or the other. You must prepare for both, creating a defensive dilemma.”

The Saints have bolstered their offense with promising talent. Quarterback Tyler Shough was an NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year finalist, and the addition of wide receiver Jordyn Tyson from the April draft enhances the lineup. Tyson joins a strong receiving corps alongside Chris Olave. These developments position New Orleans as a contender in the NFC South, aiming for a playoff appearance for the first time since 2020.