For much of the offseason, questions have surrounded New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara and what his future with the organization holds.
Those questions grew louder in recent weeks as speculation continued regarding whether Kamara would remain with the Saints or be released/traded. However, the veteran running back helped quiet some of that noise this week with a surprise appearance at week two of Saints OTAs.
Kamara arrived unexpectedly after typically spending this portion of the offseason
training on his own before reporting closer to training camp. Even members of the organization were caught off guard by his decision to attend.
According to Kamara, the choice wasn’t planned at all.
“Like I said, I was just literally laying in the bed and said I’ll go tomorrow,” Kamara said. He added that he didn’t inform anyone of his decision beforehand, with coaches and teammates only learning of his arrival once he was spotted in the facility.
Saints head coach Kellen Moore admitted Kamara’s arrival was unexpected.
“We’ll kind of work through an acclimation process there, just kind of getting to work with him. And so it’s good to see him, you know, just saw him right at the team meeting as we were starting,” Moore said.
While Kamara’s attendance alone generated attention, his comments regarding his Saints future may have been even more noteworthy.
Despite persistent rumors about his future with the franchise, Kamara made it clear there is no tension from his perspective.
“I’m going to do what I do every year. I’m going to train and be ready and we’ll see what happens… On my side, I feel no beef or bad blood. I’m going what I do every year. Working,” Kamara said.
Even as Kamara enters the later stages of his career, he remains one of the most important players on the roster. His versatility as both a runner and receiver continues to make him a focal point of the offense, especially as the Saints transition into a new era under Moore.
The veteran has repeatedly stated he plans to retire in New Orleans and that if he were released, he would retire. Ultimately, Kamara’s unexpected OTA appearance may not completely eliminate questions about his future beyond this season. The NFL is a business, and circumstances can change quickly.
Still, his actions and comments offered a reminder that his focus remains where it has always been and that he wants to be a Saint. His presence provides valuable leadership for a roster featuring several younger offensive players, making his return to the facility a positive development for the organization.
For now, there appears to be no drama, no holdout and no lingering resentment. Just another offseason of work for one of the most accomplished players in franchise history.
