There weren’t many positives for the New Orleans Saints in their 34-0 preseason loss to the Los Angeles Rams, but Kendre Miller gave the team one worth watching.
Miller received a heavy workload this past week throughout two joint practices and a preseason showing, recording six carries for 22 yards while forcing one missed tackle and converting one first down on just 24 total snaps against the Rams on Saturday. Most importantly, the opportunity was significant, and Miller made it through the game
healthy while also impressing.
The 24-year-old has shown flashes of being an impactful player at the next level, but every time he appears to gain momentum, an injury seems to derail him. Staying on the field has been the biggest hurdle of his young career.
Now, Miller may have another opportunity in front of him. Alvin Kamara is dealing with a knee injury suffered during joint practice with the Dallas Cowboys that will sideline him about a month, while Devin Neal suffered a hamstring injury against the Rams. That said, Miller could suddenly find himself with a much larger role heading into year four.
That’s where the overreaction comes in: Can we actually expect Miller to stay healthy this time?
Maybe that’s asking too much based on his history. But the Saints don’t need Miller to suddenly become their featured back. They added star RB Travis Etienne Jr. this offseason in free agency, but behind him is where Miller could be essential. New Orleans needs him to be available, productive and reliable when his number is called.
This is also a critical season for Miller. He’s entering the final year of his rookie contract, giving him plenty to prove if he wants to remain in New Orleans beyond 2026. The talent has never really been the question. Availability has.
Miller makes the Saints better when he’s on the field. If he can finally stay there, he could have a much bigger opportunity ahead of him than many expected entering the preseason.
