By Ross Jackson
Every offseason, there are underdog players that find their way onto NFL rosters. Looking over the current 89-man group of New Orleans Saints players, there are some that meet the underdog criteria, looking to be the next surprise competitors to land a role in the Big Easy.
Sometimes those roles are as consistent contributors. Sometimes they are depth or practice squad players, but in every case, these are major opportunities for those that earn them.
This time, we’ll highlight a young running back that joined the team late last season and now has a chance to stick around in a wide open running back competition.
Running Back Xazavian Valladay
Valladay (who also goes by “X”) started off at the University of Wisconsin before eventually transferring to Arizona State. He got his first opportunity late in 2018 in Wyoming’s final regular season game where he rushed for 192 rushing yards and a pair of rushing touchdowns. After that, he eventually took over as the team’s lead back, nabbing 1,000-yard rushing seasons in 2019 and 2021 with 2020 being a shortened year.
He spent one year with Arizona State before entering the NFL where he went undrafted. The 5-foot-11, 204-pound running back eventually landed with the Saints during the 2024 season and was brought back on a reserve/future deal. He has experience as a rusher and pass-catcher out of the backfield and has a strong desire to get involved with the community in New Orleans.
The Uphill Battle
Valladay’s expansive skill set will help him turn heads throughout camp, but the crowded room around him may cut into opportunities. The Saints lead running back Alvin Kamara isn’t going anywhere any time soon, but the backs behind him all find themselves in a massive competition.
Along with Valladay and Kamara are veteran running backs Clyde Edwards-Helaire and third-year rusher Kendre Miller, both of which Valladay was around throughout 2024. This year, the team also added versatile back Velus Jones Jr., drafted Kansas back Devin Neal, added undrafted free agent Marcus Yarns and, most recently, veteran back Cam Akers.
Part of the challenge for Valladay won’t just be making an impression but getting the snaps and opportunities to do so.
Standout Moments So Far
Valladay caught a deep pass down the right sideline from quarterback Spencer Rattler during mandatory minicamp practices.
7-on-7 Spencer Rattler to Xazavian Valladay. @wdsu pic.twitter.com/zyaoEJsljc
— Sharief Ishaq (@ShariefWDSU) June 10, 2025
The running back ran what looked to be a wheel route out of the backfield and turned on the jets to get behind edge rusher Chase Young who was left in coverage. Rattler was able to connect with Valladay before a closing defender, Tra Fluellen, was able to get to the catch point.
Valladay ran his Pro Day 40-yard-dash in 4.46 seconds. Every bit of that speed was on display as he streaked down the boundary, pulling in the big reception before going to the ground.
Valladay’s Resume
During his five years of college football, the Matteson, Illinois native had three 1,000-yard rushing seasons. In his 2019 year, arguably his breakout season, he led the Mountain West conference with 1,265 rushing yards.
Xazavian Valladay was GONE on this 78 yard TD 💨@wyo_football | #RideForTheBrand pic.twitter.com/ZEkK9dRxK8
— Stadium (@Stadium) November 28, 2020
His success continued as he advanced to a then-Power-5 conference, the PAC-12 as an Arizona State Sun Devil.
With Arizona State, Valladay ran for 1,192 rushing yards and led the conference in both rushing attempts (215) and rushing touchdowns (16). In 2022, he also led the PAC-12 in combined rushing and receiving scores with 18.
Xazavian Valladay has looked great the last two weeks. Has 63 yards in the 1st quarter tonight.
— Kevin (@Daboys_22) September 11, 2022
Valladay’s name might not be household in New Orleans right now, but he certainly was a known commodity among the fanbases at both of his colleges.
Why Valladay Has A Shot
Valladay’s ability to breakaway in the run game, contribute as a pass-catcher and show value in protection are all positives that should keep him in the mix of the Saints’ running back room. He’s an eager player that wants to learn more and contribute and can constantly be spotted on the sidelines talking with coaches and other running backs.
He has a knack for taking what’s given to him and not freestyling a play out of its design, a coach’s dream.
The back has an uphill climb for sure but has what it takes to at least find his way back to the practice squad, staying ready to contribute should he be called upon.
