ESPN’s Liz Losa floated the possibility of the New Orleans Saints sitting Alvin Kamara for the remainder of the season when looking at Devin Neal’s fantasy potential. The conversation may be rooted in fantasy football, but the Saints should turn that possibility into reality.
Kamara is currently dealing with a MCL injury after taking a nasty tackle at the beginning of the matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. He very well may be unable to return whether the Saints want to sit him or not.
Kamara’s health may make that decision for the Saints, or maybe that’s how they’ll present it. Truth is, if Kamara is ruled out for the season, we’ll never know for sure if the Saints made the call for the running back or not.
Saints should sit Alvin Kamara in favor of Devin Neal's potential
The idea of sitting Kamara would be the smartest decision for Kamara, Neal and the Saints. Losa wrote, "one shouldn't rely on rational coaching, but given that the Saints have been eliminated from the playoffs, it would make sense to shelve Kamara for the season and see what the team has in Neal."
It truly is that simple. The Saints are in position where the future is more important than the present, and this injury places the future directly in front of their face. Kamara's absence gives you a way to evaluate Neal in a larger role. You're going to have to invest in a running back soon, and getting a clear view of Neal will let you know where he fits in that future.
As a rookie, Neal's development will greatly improve with reps, and this is the best route to maximizing his reps. Putting him in the feature back role gives him the chance to showcase his running ability in every situation. Neal had already shown his proficiency as a pass blocker and receiver in a smaller role.
Additionally, Kamara has dealt with a nagging ankle injury this season and now suffered a knee injury that has led to him missing time. It would likely be in his best interest to simply rest. The Saints aren't playing towards a playoff spot, so risking further injury would be foolish. The Washington Commanders are playing Jayden Daniels despite slim playoff hopes. Let that serve as an example of what the Saints shouldn't do.
If you're truly about evaluating the future, prioritizing the player who could be a three down back for you for years to come is the best bet. It's better for Neal and the Saints long term. As for Kamara, it's better for his immediate health.