Another top running back gets paid. This time, it’s Alvin Kamara.
The New Orleans Saints and Kamara have agreed on a five-year extension worth $75 million in new money, according to NFL Insider Ian Rapoport. Kamara will receive a $15 million signing bonus and $34.33 million in guarantees. The deal keeps the star running back in New Orleans for the next six years.
News of this deal broke just moments after Dalvin Cook’s new extension was announced. Kamara will now make an average of $15 million per year, tying him for second among all running backs in average annual value, behind only Carolina’s Christian McCaffrey.
Multiple reports suggested the Saints were open to trading Kamara if the price was right. However, the chances of a team giving up a first-round pick for a running back with this price tag was unlikely.
Kamara hasn’t been your typical running back since entering the league. He’s yet to rush for 900 yards in a single season.
Where Kamara really thrives is in the receiving game. The former Tennessee Volunteer has averaged 689.3 receiving yards and 81 receptions.
The three-time Pro Bowler is one of just four players in NFL history to surpass 2,000 yards rushing and receiving through his first three seasons. Roger Craig, Herschel Walker, and McCaffrey are also on the list.
As the Saints get ready to pursue another Lombardi Trophy in what could be QB Drew Brees’ last season, Kamara’s contribution will be more important than ever.
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