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The Saints’ backfield faces an uncertain future as they integrate new star RB Travis Etienne alongside veteran Alvin Kamara.New Orleans Today
The New Orleans Saints showed promise under new head coach Kellen Moore last season, and this offseason they made a big move by acquiring star running back Travis Etienne. However, Etienne’s arrival has cast doubt on the future of longtime Saints RB Alvin Kamara, a 5-time Pro Bowler, and whether the two will be able to coexist in the Saints’ backfield in 2026.
Why it matters
The Saints are hoping to build on their late-season momentum and return to playoff contention in the NFC South. How they manage their running back room, with the addition of Etienne and the uncertain status of Kamara, will be a key factor in determining their success next season.
The details
The Saints acquired Etienne, a dynamic young running back, in a high-profile offseason move. However, Kamara has been the focal point of the Saints’ offense for years, making 5 Pro Bowls. It remains to be seen if the two can effectively share carries or if the Saints will have to make a difficult decision about Kamara’s future with the team.
The Saints showed improvement under new head coach Kellen Moore late in the 2025 season.The Saints acquired RB Travis Etienne this offseason.
The players
Kellen Moore
The head coach of the New Orleans Saints, who took over the team late in the 2025 season and helped them show improvement.
Travis Etienne
A star running back who the Saints acquired this offseason to bolster their backfield.
Alvin Kamara
A 5-time Pro Bowl running back who has been the focal point of the Saints’ offense for years.
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What’s next
The Saints will need to determine how to best utilize both Kamara and Etienne in their backfield, and whether Kamara’s future remains with the team.
The takeaway
The Saints’ offseason acquisition of Travis Etienne has created uncertainty around the future of longtime star running back Alvin Kamara, a key piece of their offense. How the team navigates this situation will be crucial to their success in 2026.