Saints star running back Alvin Kamara made headlines on Thursday by leaving the New Orleans minicamp practice early, signaling a clear message about his ongoing contract dispute. Kamara, who is nearing the end of his current deal, is seeking an extension or a restructure, but so far, no agreement has been reached.
His agent, Brad Cicala, confirmed to NFL insider Ian Rapoport that the departure was indeed related to contract negotiations. Kamara’s deal pays him $10.7 million for this season, but with a $25 million cap hit looming in 2025, it’s evident that the Saints are unlikely to commit to such a large salary. Kamara’s push for a new deal comes in the wake of Christian McCaffrey‘s two-year, $38 million extension with the 49ers, which sets a high bar for elite running back contracts.
Derek Carr said Alvin Kamara was in meetings this morning as normal. Carr said he had no idea why he left. When asked about the contract part of it, Carr said: "My dad always told me you don't put your hand in another man's pocket," aka Kamara's contract is not his business.
Kamara, one of the league’s most versatile and productive backs, has accumulated 5,829 rushing yards, 54 rushing touchdowns, 4,219 receiving yards, and 23 touchdown catches since being drafted in the third round by the Saints in 2017. In the 2023 season, he recorded 694 rushing yards, 466 receiving yards, and six total touchdowns over 13 games. Despite having two years remaining on his contract, Kamara is essentially on a one-year deal due to the non-guaranteed $22.4 million base salary in 2025.
With just $1 million guaranteed for 2024, Kamara is looking for security and recognition of his value. As the Saints navigate this situation, they have a stable of other running backs including Jamaal Williams, Kendre Miller, Jordan Mims, and James Robinson. How the team manages Kamara’s demands will be pivotal, not just for the upcoming season but for their financial strategy moving forward.
