Roughly a week after rumors started to swirl about a possible Alvin Kamara trade, the Pro Bowl running back now is set to stay in New Orleans for the next six seasons. The Saints and Kamara have reportedly agreed on a five-year extension worth $75 million.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that the deal is worth $75 million over the next five years, $34.3 million guaranteed and as a $15 million signing bonus. That averages out to $15M/yr, which ties Ezekiel Elliott has the 2nd highest paid running back in the league.
Since he has been in the NFL, Alvin Kamara has been one of the league’s best running backs, especially when it comes to catching the ball. In each of his last three seasons Kamara hauled in 81 receptions, but also has over 2,400 rushing yards in those three seasons as well. Minor injuries over the past few seasons might be cause for concern, but Kamara has been relatively durable during his time with the Saints.
While we have seen these giant running back contracts seem to come back and bite franchises in the butt later, the Saints are putting all the chips in the middle. Drew Brees is going to retire soon, like really soon, and New Orleans has been just a few plays away from a Super Bowl appearance. Having Alvin Kamara paid, and ready to roll is the only way we see the Saints push for that Super Bowl ring.
