Players' reaction to Alvin Kamara’s extension shows how much he means to the Saints

The New Orleans Saints finally did something right. On Tuesday evening, the team signed veteran running back Alvin Kamara to a two-year extension. The deal is reportedly worth $24.5 million, and ties Kamara to New Orleans through the 2026 season, setting him up to ultimately retire with the Saints.

This extension felt inevitable, as Kamara was essentially in the final year of his current contract. The veteran running back went to the team to get a deal done this offseason, but was denied. However, Kamara didn’t complain, instead showing up and giving his all to New Orleans like he has since arriving in 2017.

Now, after seven weeks, the Saints reward him with an extension and everyone is happy. Kamara is happy, the franchise is happy, fans are happy, and Kamara’s Saints teammates are happy. His teammates immediately took to social media to congratulate him on the extension.

Saints players congratulate Alvin Kamara on contract extension

Veteran defensive lineman Cam Jordan praised the move and said AK all the way. Young receiver Rashid Shaheed called Kamara the GOAT, and dropped a lot of fire emojis. Kamara’s former running mate Mark Ingram also chimed in, making it clear that this extension was earned.

There’s no doubt about that. Even with the new money, Kamara might be underpaid for what he’s gone through this season. This year, his eighth season, he’s played through injured ribs, and hand and hip injuries. He’s also been behind an inconsistent offensive line. Still, he goes out every play, even in blowouts, and tries to put the team on his back.

After seven games, he has 111 carries for 438 yards and six touchdowns, as well as 34 receptions for 252 yards and an additional touchdown. He’s currently 234 yards away from passing Mark Ingram for the most rushing yards in franchise history, and health permitting, that should happen in a few weeks.

In a week where Kamara’s name was brought up in trade rumors, the Saints made it clear the star running back belongs in New Orleans, and he won’t be going anywhere anytime soon.

READ MORE