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Alvin Kamara has long been entrenched as the New Orleans Saints’ RB1. 2023 was another strong fantasy football season. He finished as the RB11 in PPR leagues despite missing four games.
Things get more interesting behind Kamara. Second-year back Kendre Miller and eighth-year veteran Jamaal Williams are the other backs of note on the roster. One of these players will establish themselves as the Saints’ RB2. It’s always important to keep tabs on backup running backs for fantasy football. Running back is a notoriously fragile position, and players buried on the depth chart quickly become fantasy-relevant when injuries strike.
So which player will back up Kamara this year? Let’s take a few minutes and discuss.
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Who is the New Orleans Saints’ RB2?
Kamara remains fully entrenched as the New Orleans' starting running back. However, he is clearly a player in decline. Kamara posted career lows in rushing yards, yards per reception (Y/R), and yards per target (Y/TGT). He also finished 46th out of 49 eligible backs in Next Gen Stats Rush Yards Over Expectation (RYOE). If he continues at this pace, the Saints RB2 could have a major fantasy football impact.
In 2023, Williams had his worst season as a professional. He had career lows in yards per carry (YPC), rushing yards, and tied a career low in rushing touchdowns. Williams also finished just 48th in RYOE. Entering his age 29 season, Williams also appears to be on his last legs.
That’s where 2023 third-round pick Miller comes into play. It was a tough rookie season as the former TCU Horned Frog missed time due to knee, ankle, and hamstring injuries. He would be limited to just eight games as a result. While he struggled to stay on the field, Miller briefly showed why the Saints invested a third-round pick in him.
Don’t forget about #Saints RB Kendre Miller in your #fantasyfootball leagues.
Talented player. Could thrive if the opportunity presents itself.
— The Fantasy Football Stallion (@FF_Stallion) May 10, 2024
All signs point to a camp battle for the RB2 spot between Miller and Williams. We didn’t get to see Miller a lot last year, but he showcased skills in limited action. He has youth and fresh legs on his side. It will be a tough battle, but given the decline in Williams’ play, expect Miller to emerge as the Saints RB2 eventually. He just needs to stay healthy to do so. Expect Miller to be one of the top handcuffs available if he does win the job, and he may see the field more often if Kamara’s play completely falls off a cliff.
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