Alvin Kamara Expected to Play for Saints Behind Travis Etienne, While Multiple NFL Players Near Game-Ready Status
The New Orleans Saints plan to keep Alvin Kamara on the roster in a backup role as Travis Etienne assumes the lead running back duties, and several other teams report players cleared to practice ahead of Week 1.
Alvin Kamara is expected to remain with the New Orleans Saints for the upcoming season, though his role will be limited to backup duties and passing-down work behind starter Travis Etienne. The veteran running back accepted a restructured contract that reduces his base salary but includes performance incentives that could add up to $2.5 million. Saints officials indicated that Kamara will likely be active for the season opener against the Detroit Lions, but his presence is not projected to significantly alter Etienne’s workload, which is forecast at 235 carries and over 1,300 total yards.
Saints head coach Dennis Allen’s staff has not confirmed Kamara’s exact snap count, but reports suggest he will serve as a change-of-pace option. The team’s negotiations this offseason focused on a pay cut for Kamara, with the player reportedly willing to concede financially to stay in New Orleans.
Other NFL injury updates include the Chicago Bears’ offensive tackle Ozzy Trapilo, who is on an accelerated recovery timeline after a knee injury, and the New York Jets’ running back Breece Hall, who says he is ready for a full workload. Jets rookie Isaiah Davis also returned to full practice. Buffalo Bills running back Ty Johnson missed Thursday’s practice due to a lingering hamstring strain, likely sidelining him for the season opener.
The Atlanta Falcons reported quarterback Tua Tagovailoa experienced brief discomfort during a recent drill, though he is slated to start the first game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers is on track to play in Week 1, while the Arizona Cardinals’ rookie running back Jeremiyah Love appears cleared for the season opener. The Las Vegas Raiders confirmed running back Ashton Jeanty is ready for the opening game, and rookie Mike Washington has drawn positive preseason attention.
These updates provide teams and fantasy managers with a clearer picture of player availability as the NFL regular season approaches.