Saints’ Backfield in Flux as Alvin Kamara Battles Ankle Injury

The New Orleans Saints face backfield uncertainty ahead of their Week 10 matchup. Veteran running back Alvin Kamara is officially listed as questionable. He is dealing with an ongoing ankle issue. This development throws the Saints’ rushing attack into question against the Carolina Panthers.

According to team reports, Kamara has been managing this injury for a month. He played through it last week but was limited. His potential absence forces the team to evaluate its young depth options.

Devin Neal and Audric Estime Emerge as Potential Replacements

Rookie Devin Neal saw his role expand significantly in Week 9. He played a season-high 39% of the offensive snaps. Neal recorded three carries for 11 yards and caught all three of his targets.

His increased involvement suggests the coaching staff is preparing for contingencies. Neal was a versatile, every-down back in college at Kansas. This skillset could translate to a larger NFL role if given the opportunity.

Long-Term Implications for the Saints’ Rushing Attack

The Saints’ recent roster move adds another layer to the situation. They signed rookie Audric Estime to the active roster this week. Estime, formerly with the Denver Broncos, is a powerful, between-the-tackles runner.

This signals a potential shift in strategy for the remainder of the season. The team may use this period to evaluate its future backfield. A committee approach could emerge, splitting early-down and third-down work.

Kamara’s recent production has been modest, making a change plausible. He has averaged under 60 total yards per game and scored just once. Giving younger players more snaps aligns with evaluating talent for next season. This creates a volatile but potentially valuable fantasy football situation for managers searching for a sleeper pick.

The Saints’ backfield is a situation to monitor closely, especially with the Alvin Kamara injury creating opportunity. For fantasy managers, Devin Neal represents the most immediate speculative add if Kamara is sidelined.

Info at your fingertips

What is Alvin Kamara’s current injury status?

Alvin Kamara is listed as questionable for Week 10. He is dealing with an ankle injury that has limited him in practice. This is the same issue he has managed for the past several weeks.

Who is the primary backup if Alvin Kamara is out?

Rookie Devin Neal is the direct backup. He saw increased playing time last week, taking 39% of the offensive snaps. The team also recently promoted Audric Estime to the active roster.

Is Devin Neal a good fantasy football pickup?

Neal is a speculative add in deeper leagues. His workload remains uncertain, but he would be in line for significant touches if Kamara is inactive. He offers a low-cost option with potential upside.

What kind of runner is Audric Estime?

Audric Estime is a powerful, downhill runner. He profiles as an early-down and short-yardage specialist. His role is expected to be limited initially as he learns the playbook.

Why is Alvin Kamara’s production down this season?

Several factors are likely at play. The ankle injury has certainly been a factor. The overall offensive inconsistency for the Saints has also limited scoring opportunities for the running game.