In a recent ESPN survey, experts from around the league have collectively decided that Alvin Kamara, the once top-tier running back for the New Orleans Saints, has seen a decline in his performance that has knocked him out of the top-10 rankings. Despite his explosive start in the league after being picked in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft, where he dazzled with 1,554 all-purpose yards as a rookie and secured five straight Pro Bowl appearances from 2017 to 2021, Kamara is now deemed by league executives, coaches, and scouts as no longer worthy of a top-10 spot among running backs.
The consensus seems to be that Alvin Kamara is no longer the dynamic force he once was, failing to match up to the likes of Derrick Henry or Christian McCaffrey in terms of production and impact on the field. Last season, Kamara’s stats indicated a decline in performance, ranking 33rd in total rushing yards and averaging 3.87 yards per attempt. While these may not be the most accurate measures of a player’s talent, it is evident that factors such as the quality of the offensive line and offensive scheme have played a role in limiting Kamara’s effectiveness.
Advanced metrics further support the notion that Kamara has fallen behind his peers, with a PFF grade of 76.1 placing him 26th out of 59 eligible running backs. Metrics such as yards created per touch and juke rate also paint a similar picture, placing Kamara outside of the top tier of running backs in the league. While still considered a starting-caliber back, it seems the consensus among league experts is that Kamara no longer belongs in the top 10.
The Saints’ decision to draft Kendre Miller in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft as a potential successor to Kamara raises questions about the veteran running back’s future with the team. Miller’s underwhelming rookie season, where he managed just 156 yards and one touchdown on 41 carries, does little to instill confidence in his ability to take over from Kamara. With competition from free agent signing Jamaal Williams also in the mix, it remains to be seen if Miller can carve out a significant role in the Saints’ offense in his second year.
As the NFL landscape continues to evolve, Alvin Kamara finds himself at a crossroads in his career, with his future with the Saints uncertain. Only time will tell if he can rediscover his previous form and reclaim his status as one of the league’s elite running backs. In the meantime, the league has spoken, and for now, Kamara will have to prove his doubters wrong if he hopes to regain his spot among the top 10 running backs in the NFL.
