Kamara eyeing Saquon-surge in 2025

METAIRIE, La. (WGNO) – “Imma call Saquon and ask him how he feel on Sundays after the game,” Alvin Kamara said, when asked if the running back wants similar touches to Saquon Barkley in 2024. Philly’s ball carrier had 2,005 rushing yards on 345 carries last season.

Maybe not the awards, but Barkley’s production from last season has Kamara’s attention. The Eagles running back earned Offensive Player of the year, after racking up almost 2,283 total scrimmage yards and 15 total touchdowns (Brotherly Shove robbery) last year.

Now, thanks to the Black and Gold’s new head coach, Kamara can see the same for himself. Of course, Kellen Moore is entering his first season at the helm, following a one year stint as the Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator, and the prospect of what Kamara could do in Moore’s system, already has AK41 hyped up following opening day of the Black and Gold’s training camp.

“Obviously with what Saquon just being the last and doing it, it’s exciting. I try not to look too far ahead. It’s day one of camp so we got to grind, and it’s a lot to learn. Make those touches count: Whether it’s 10 rushes and five catches 10 catches a five rushes, if those spots are good and we rolling, and it puts me in the best position to help,” Kamara said.

Health is the main factor when discussing how dominant the ninth year running back can be, and although quarterback is the main position battle headlining Saints training camp, so is back up running back. Finding a ball carrier who can spell Kamara throughout the season is paramount.

“Alvin’s going to lead the way with that group, but you need other guys to to hop in there. We feel like we got a really good group there, some guys with some experience that is very, very valuable and then some really young guys that we’re fired up for. We’re going to need a couple of those guys to hop in there and be ready to roll,” first-year head coach Kellen Moore said.

“I think balance is important. How I’m getting the ball, when I’m getting the ball, and then, we got dogs on the team. Hopefully those guys get some spin, get the ball and loosen things up for me. I’m a big believer in hustle smart not hard,” Kamara added.

Although the black and gold finish in the top half of rushing yards last season, averaging 114.9 yards per game on the ground, increasing the rushing total will be key for an offense bringing in a new starting quarterback.

“It’ll be kind of easy with Alvin back there. As long as we stay healthy, we got a great standard, and we got great expectations for the offense. We’re definitely excited, especially with AK back there and the run game, and it’s going to open it up for the passing game and outside” wide receiver Chris Olave added.

The battle to become RB2 likely will not start until Monday when the Saints their first fully padded practice on July 28th

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