New Orleans Saints: 4 potential candidates to be the No. 3 running back

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - SEPTEMBER 21: Drew Brees #9 of the New Orleans Saints hands the ball off to Alvin Kamara #41 in the first quarter against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on September 21, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

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Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Tony Jones Jr. (6) – Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

New Orleans Saints RB3 Options – No. 3: Tony Jones Jr.

The Saints signed Tony Jones Jr. as an undrafted free agent last year and he was decent during his time at Notre Dame. The Fighting Irish running back totaled 1,481 yards and 12 rushing touchdowns during his five years at the collegiate level.

His best season came in 2019 when he rushed for 857 yards and six touchdowns. Jones wasn’t utilized much as a pass-catcher while in college and that’s definitely something Sean Payton likes in his running backs. Kamara is used as a receiver quite frequently in the offense and that’s why having running backs who are effective in the receiving game is key.

Jones appeared in one game with the Saints during his rookie season and rushed for just 13 yards off of three carries, so it was hard to really get a feel as to what he could do. Like Scott, if Jones can step up and have a nice summer, there’s a chance he could earn a spot on the roster and maybe even serve as the third-string running back.

It’s going to take a lot of work for Jones but he’s only 23 years old so there’s potential there for sure.