The New Orleans Saints have a promising young running back in Kendre Miller, but his career has been repeatedly thwarted by injuries. After two stints on injured reserve this season with hamstring injuries, the second-year running back has been serving as New Orleans’ RB1 with Alvin Kamara sidelined.
Unfortunately, that stint has come to an abrupt stop because of another injury. In Sunday’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders, Miller was ruled out of the game with a concussion. Now, with just one game left in the season, Miller’s season could be over, and the Saints could be starting this unfortunate cycle all over again.
Saints ruled out RB Kendre Miller today due to a concussion.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 29, 2024
Kendre Miller suffers concussion in Week 17 vs. Raiders
While players can’t control injuries, frequent injuries do unfortunately affect a players career. Miller’s career has undoubtedly been affected, and it’s safe to say his future with the team is in question after the string of injuries he suffered in his first two years.
Miller’s most recent absence immediately affects the Saints, as Alvin Kamara is already out. The running back room is now left thin, as the team has one week left in the season.
The real question, though, is about Miller’s future. As New Orleans enters an important offseason, and likely starts a rebuild, the franchise has to ask itself what players it wants to take into a new era. While Miller’s talent has been evident when he’s been on the field, the team will also factor how much time he’s been off the field.
On the year, he has 39 carries for 148 yards and one touchdown. He also added four receptions for 17 yards. This is after a rookie season with 41 attempts for 156 rushing yards and one touchdown, along with 10 receptions for an additional 117 yards. However, he has only appeared in 14 total games. Those are the numbers the Saints must consider this offseason.