Everyone in New Orleans has wanted more of New Orleans Saints’ second-year running back Kendre Miller. In Week 8 against the Los Angeles Chargers, it was evident why everyone is always asking for more Miller— the good and the bad reasons.
In the 26-8 loss, Miller had another promising outing. He carried the ball three times for 16 yards, and had a couple of more impressive runs called back for holding calls. He also returned a kick for 41 yards. His talent was evident, and it was clear why people think he can be a big part of New Orleans’ future.
Unfortunately, Miller also left the game early with a hamstring injury, and that’s the other part of his story that has just as big of a role as his talent. The young running back can’t stay on the field, and that essentially voids all of his talent.
Kendre Miller leaves Saints’ Week 8 game with hamstring injury
On the first day of training camp this year, Miller suffered a hamstring injury that kept him out all of camp. The second-year running back started the season on injured reserve, and missed the first five games of the year.
When the injury first happened in camp, head coach Dennis Allen gave a brutally honest assessment to the media, saying Miller can’t make the team if he’s always in the training room. Of course, he did ultimately make the team, because he was too talented of a back to just let go, but Sunday further proves why he’s a player the Saints can't rely on.
Hopefully, this hamstring strain isn’t as severe as the one he sustained in camp, but considering Miller’s history of hamstring issues, fans aren’t optimistic. It’d be great if he could get healthy and tap into the promise that he consistently flashes when on the field, but that doesn’t seem likely right now.