One of the most exciting and intriguing New Orleans Saints position groups to watch throughout the fast-approaching training camp will be running back. The position is overflowing with storylines both centering around surefire playmakers and uncertain futures.
As we continue a position-by-position look at the Saints’ roster ahead of training camp, the running back room, headlined by newcomer and Louisiana-native Travis Etienne Jr.’s explosive potential, but quickly followed by a crowded room searching for clarity.
The Names
- Travis Etienne Jr.
- Alvin Kamara
- Kendre Miller
- Devin Neal
- Audric Estime
- Ty Chandler
- CJ Donaldson
The Top Storyline
The biggest story to follow throughout camp will be the impact of Etienne, who is looking to bring his explosive production to a Saints’ offense starving to revitalize its run game. Over the last four years, Etienne has charted 23 rushes of 20 or more yards. That’s exactly as many as the entire Saints’ roster in that same span of time, with only eight such runs coming from running backs.
Etienne’s electrifying home run ability will be a welcome factor to head coach Kellen Moore’s offense, which has typically pulled together some outstanding run games throughout his stops as an offensive play caller.
Right behind Etienne will be Kamara, both in regards to biggest story and depth chart order. A new situation for Kamara, who has expressed multiple times that he’s hopeful to be a part of the team’s 2026 plans while being comfortable serving a complementary role to Etienne.
However, beyond what Kamara is hoping for, the Saints will have to make their decision about whether or not he is truly a part of the picture for the team’s near future. As that story develops, New Orleans could be inching closer toward another major statement about the team’s new era.
Most Intriguing Battle: Who’s Next?
Should the Saints find a way to move ahead with both Etienne and Kamara, the team will have a fierce competition for the third back that is more than likely to see a number of snaps per game, plus an important special teams role, as well.
Miller, Neal, Estime, Chandler and Chandler are all set to be eyeing that opportunity as camp opens, with Miller returning from injury and looking to prove he can still contribute to the team after an ACL tear shortened his 2025 season.
Should the Saints part ways with Kamara before the season begins, camp will go a long way in informing the team not only who the third running back will be, but more importantly who the go-to complementary back to Etienne will be. It will feature a much larger workload and may come with specifications around the type of back that can earn the role.
For instance, with Etienne being such an elusive and agile rusher, the Saints could look to a more physical, between-the-tackles presence to create a change of pace when Etienne is off the field. Were things to play out this way, this would quickly become one of the most intriguing storylines of the summer.
