High profile discussions between star players and organizations can often create tension, especially when money, expectations, and a players future are involved. By making it clear there is no bad blood, New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara showed that the relationship between him and the Saints remains strong despite the unresolved situation.
“On my side I don’t feel no pressure. There’s no beef or bad blood, I don’t think. I’m just doing what I do every year, working. Whatever decisions have to be made, they’ll be made. I’m going to train and be ready and we’ll see what happens.” While the contract situation remains unresolved, Kamara’s words suggest his commitment to the Saints has never wavered.
That is important because negotiations can sometimes become public disputes that create distractions throughout the offseason and even into regular season. Instead, both Kamara and the Saints appear to be handling the process professionally, allowing the focus to remain on football. For a franchise icon and one of the team’s most recognizable players, avoiding unnecessary drama is positive development as both sides continue working forward a potential agreement.
Alvin Kamara had his chance to show
Kamara showing up for OTAs also let the Saints get an up close and personal look at the running back. He’s coming off the worst season of his career, and a large part of that story was due to injuries. Running backs don’t get the benefit of the doubt after 30 years old. Maybe it was the injuries. Maybe it was the offensive line. At nearly 31 years old, how much gas is left in the tank is a natural question.
It’s not just a fan thing either. We’ve seen how quick teams are to move away from an aging running back. Slowing down at that age is oftentimes seen as the beginning of the end. Kamara had the chance to prove that isn't the case. He could show he still has that burst. He still possesses that athletic ability that will always pass the eye test.
When you're on the bubble, these small things can make a difference. Kamara hasn't been in the facility since last year. Prior to this week, the last image of Kamara was an injured player who missed the latter half of the season. Now, he's given them a new image to use, one much more advantageous to retain.
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