Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images
By Ross Jackson
The New Orleans Saints’ roster didn’t see many big additions or improvements this offseason. Most of the possible progress the roster is set to make in 2025 will come down to rookies and new faces catching on faster and producing better than initially anticipated for any newcomers.
But there are a couple of position groups that look ready to take a step forward relative to where they were last year. One of the most noticeable this offseason has been running back.
While there wasn’t much replacing talent this spring, there were some key additions to the room that are worth considering as well as changes elsewhere that should have a positive ripple effect on the group.
New Additions Bring Promise
In particular, rookie running back Devin Neal brings a level of excitement. Sure, he was drafted in the sixth round, but he was widely considered a day two prospect going into the 2025 NFL Draft.
His durability and production are both going to be welcome additions to the Saints’ locker room. He never missed a game due to injury during his four-year career with Kansas, he topped 1,000 yards in three consecutive seasons and averaged a whopping 5.7 yards per carry over his career.
The Saints just stole RB Devin Neal at 6.184 — 220-pounder with nifty feet and a versatile game
— Thor Nystrom (@thorku) April 26, 2025
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Neal joins veteran additions Velus Jones Jr. and Cam Akers, along with undrafted rookie Marcus Yarns. Together, they form a versatile and eclectic running back room behind incumbent starter Alvin Kamara.
Head Coach Kellen Moore’s Impact
Of the positive ripple effects that could take place for the position group, none are bigger than the coaching staff changes. Moore’s emphasis on playing to the strengths of his roster is going to be a perfect complement to Kamara, who can still do so much.
Impressive both in space and through contact, as a rusher and as a receiver, Kamara’s versatility and unique skill set should be a key part of Moore’s gameplan in 2025. Another veteran rusher, former LSU Tigers running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire, also has a vast skill set that should be of value.
Meanwhile, third-year rusher Kendre Miller should benefit as well. An explosive inside zone rusher at TCU before entering the league, being knotted up in an offense that ran outside the tackles 69.8% of the time last year wasn’t the most advantageous situation for the young back. Now, he’ll be in an offensive system that wants to run the ball by attacking numerous points of attack.
Not enough people talking about TCU HB Kendre Miller pic.twitter.com/gFfKSPbGtm
— James Foster (@NoFlagsFilm) February 10, 2023
In addition to Moore, the return of running backs coach Joel Thomas (who is now also associate head coach) and the addition of run game coordinator T.J. Paganetti are sure to pay dividends for the group.
Health Will Need To Trend Up
In order for any NFL team’s running back room to perform and improve, health is a key factor. Backs take a lot of hits, are asked to stand tall in protection against rushers with a head start and short-area changes of direction can be demanding. All of that will be a factor for each and every running back that makes the roster in 2025.
This is where another key offseason addition, Ted Rath, comes into play. The new director of sports performance will be tasked with curving the Saints’ bad injury luck that has now plagued them for multiple years. If he and his team can help the Saints stay healthy, especially on the offensive line, the New Orleans running backs could see an undeniable step forward in 2025.
