by Niles Carpenter/Saints Contributor
The New Orleans Saints have been busy on the player market, eyeing veteran running back Kareem Hunt and linebacker Anthony Barr as potential additions to their roster. Dianna Russini‘s tweet revealed that the team is actively working out both players, showcasing their determination to reinforce their squad ahead of the upcoming season.
With star running back Alvin Kamara serving a three-game suspension due to a violation of the NFL’s personal conduct policy, the Saints are keen to strengthen their backfield options. The recent Achilles tendon injury to Eno Benjamin further compounded their concerns. To address these gaps, the Saints secured Jamaal Williams earlier in the offseason plus drafted TCU running back Kendre Miller in the third round of the 2023 draft, but now see Hunt as a potential backup until Kamara’s return. Hunt’s experience, amassed during four seasons with the Cleveland Browns, showcases his versatility as both a runner and receiver, making him an attractive option to bolster the Saints’ running game.
In Cleveland, Hunt faced his share of challenges, including trade drama that lingered throughout the season. Despite the off-field distractions, he still managed to contribute significantly with 1,874 rushing yards, 973 receiving yards, and 23 touchdowns during his tenure. However, his final year with the Browns didn’t go as planned, as his role was reduced, leading to the worst per-carry average of his career. A fresh start in New Orleans could provide Hunt with the opportunity to re-establish himself and contribute effectively to the team’s offensive strategy.
On the defensive side, the Saints are considering adding veteran linebacker Anthony Barr to their ranks. The four-time Pro Bowler spent the majority of his career with the Minnesota Vikings from 2014 to 2021 before joining the Dallas Cowboys for a brief stint. Barr’s experience and leadership on the field could provide a much-needed boost to the Saints’ defense. With 553 tackles, 18.5 sacks, 41 tackles for loss, and 48 QB hits throughout his career, Barr brings a wealth of skills and knowledge to the table.
As a free agent, Barr has been on the lookout for a new team, and the Saints might be just the right fit. The team’s pursuit of the veteran linebacker shows that New Orleans might have some concern for linebacker Demario Davis who is dealing with a calf injury. If Barr finds a new home in New Orleans, it could mark the beginning of an exciting chapter in his career.
In conclusion, the New Orleans Saints are making strategic moves to enhance their roster for the upcoming season. With Kareem Hunt potentially serving as a backup running back and Anthony Barr adding depth and experience to the linebacker position, the Saints are determined to overcome the challenges posed by Kamara’s suspension and Benjamin’s injury. The addition of these seasoned veterans could prove instrumental in propelling the Saints towards a successful 2023 season.