The New Orleans Saints invested heavily at running back with the signing of Travis Etienne Jr. this offseason. Despite the hefty contract, he will split carries with veteran Alvin Kamara, and this doesn’t phase him. In fact, Etienne revealed his positive outlook on the situation in an interview with Jim Rome.
Some believe signing Etienne spells the end for Kamara. Time will tell whether or not that's the case, but Etienne certainly hopes it isn't. “It keeps the defense on their toes. They’ve gotta worry about two guys instead of one,” Etienne said. “It’s only gonna make the team better.”
Etienne is spot on with this evaluation. Having a tandem of explosive rushers stresses out the defense. It also gives the Saints fresh legs constantly. This is a desired situation for the team, but one they haven't had since prime Boom and Zoom (Mark Ingram and Alvin Kamara) in 2018. Now, the Saints hope to replicate this success with Etienne and Kamara.
The Saints should lean on the ground attack in 2026
It’s irrational to assume Kamara will return to his vintage self, but he doesn’t have to. Etienne can be the primary back with the veteran sprinkled in as the change-of-pace player. Because of this, the Saints should lean on this tandem and take the pressure off of Tyler Shough in order to avoid a sophomore slump.
It’s imperative that Shough doesn’t have to be Superman. He was forced into this role in week 18 of last season, which was arguably his worst performance. He needs to have playmakers that can take a portion of the workload off his shoulders.
Head coach Kellen Moore clearly wants to focus on the rushing attack, look at the Eagles in 2024, and he finally has the opportunity for that. At the end of the day, the Saints could have a top rushing offense in the league if they stay healthy.
Overall, Travis Etienne Jr.’s positivity surrounding his partnership with Alvin Kamara is an amazing sign for the Saints. The two could form an explosive tandem and take the pressure off of Tyler Shough. If all goes well, this running back group could surprise people.