BREAKING: Saints Sign Former for RB Depth
With Alvin Kamara’s status uncertain due to a groin injury, the New Orleans Saints have signed former LSU standout and Kansas City Chiefs running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire to bolster their backfield. Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football first reported the move on Wednesday, which has since been confirmed by the Saints.
Kamara, the Saints’ leading rusher, suffered the injury during last week’s loss to Washington, leaving his availability in doubt for Monday night’s game against the 10-4 Green Bay Packers. With Kamara sidelined, the Saints are left with limited options at running back, including the often-injured Kendre Miller, the struggling Jamaal Williams, and the inexperienced Jordan Mims.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire Joins the Saints
Edwards-Helaire, 25, brings notable experience to the Saints’ backfield. Drafted 32nd overall in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs, he excelled during his college career at LSU. Over three seasons with the Tigers, Edwards-Helaire totaled 2,103 rushing yards, 595 receiving yards, and 24 touchdowns. His standout 2019 season helped LSU secure a National Championship as he rushed for 1,414 yards and an SEC-best 16 touchdowns, while also catching 55 passes for 453 yards and a score.
During his four seasons with the Chiefs, Edwards-Helaire ran for 1,845 yards and 12 touchdowns, averaging 4.2 yards per carry. He also contributed as a receiver, with 89 receptions for 765 yards and seven touchdowns. His rookie season saw him lead Kansas City with 803 rushing yards as they reached Super Bowl LV. Despite injuries that sidelined him for 16 games between 2021 and 2023, he played a key role in the Chiefs’ back-to-back Super Bowl wins.
Edwards-Helaire, who had not appeared in a game this season for the 13-1 Chiefs, was released on Tuesday. He is in the final year of his rookie contract and will initially join the Saints’ practice squad. To make room, the team released defensive tackle Kendal Vickers.
As the Saints prepare for their matchup against Green Bay, Kamara’s status will remain a focal point. If he is unable to play, Edwards-Helaire could be elevated to the active roster, providing much-needed depth and experience to New Orleans’ backfield.
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