Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
By Ross Jackson
One of the biggest position battles taking place in the New Orleans Saints’ roster through training camp has been at the second running back spot. Starting back Alvin Kamara is locked in as the team’s starting rusher, but finding the right combination of backs behind him is important for the team’s in-season rotation.
As camp has progressed, it’s been tough to spot a separation among the room. No player has specifically commanded attention or jumped off the field. But at the same time, past practices have often lent themselves to the passing game over the rushing attack.
While it’s been difficult to interpret the hierarchy of the room thus far, here is what can be gleaned from the rotation.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Devin Neal and Kendre Miller See a Lot of Action
Of the players outside of Kamara that see the most first and second team opportunities, these three backs are leading the way.
Whether in passing or rushing drills, whether being asked to carry, catch or protect, you can typically spot one of this trio of backs on the field with the starters or immediate backups. They will sometimes slip into third down reps if more work is necessary. But Edwards-Helaire, Neal and Miller are consistently involved near the top of the order.
Cam Akers Shows Off Strong Presence
“I’m still learning my role,” the former Los Angeles Rams running back told the media on Saturday.
He’s working hard to carve out his path. During his media availability, he brandished a cut on the left side of his face that he suffered during a pass protection rep. That’s a strong sign of his efforts on the field.
He may be trying to figure out what his contributions will look like in the offense, but his physical run style, ability in protection and veteran experience make him a true option.
Velus Jones Jr. and Marcus Yarns Show Flashes
The Saints haven’t had a true speed running back for some time. Jones and his 4.31 40 time could provide the team exactly that. Yarns is no slouch with 4.45-second speed himself.
Jones had a breakaway 35-yard rushing touchdown in end-of-half two-minute drill scenarios on Wednesday.
Velus Jones Jr. showing off his speed 🔥 pic.twitter.com/7dYJ9k8ELC
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) July 30, 2025
Both rushers provide the Saints unique options, but are most consistently seeing reps with the third team, some second team shots here and there.
It can be a challenge to really figure out which back is leading the way in the second running back conversation solely based on rotation. But this at least provides a framework for the tiers of backs and how they are being deployed thus far.
