Saints Coach Confident Kamara and Etienne Can Share Backfield

Moore says there will be enough snaps for both star running backs in 2026 season.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 5:32pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting two football players in a backfield, their forms broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in a range of red, black, and grey tones, conveying the complex dynamics of integrating two star running backs into an offense.The Saints' plan to feature both Alvin Kamara and Travis Etienne in their backfield will require creative offensive scheming to maximize the talents of the two star running backs.New Orleans Today

New Orleans Saints head coach Kellen Moore expressed confidence that star running backs Alvin Kamara and newly signed Travis Etienne will both have ample opportunities to contribute in the team's backfield this upcoming season. Moore spoke to reporters at the NFL's league meetings, emphasizing the team's excitement about adding Etienne while also reaffirming their commitment to the veteran Kamara.

Why it matters

The Saints' ability to effectively utilize both Kamara and Etienne, two of the league's most dynamic running backs, will be crucial to the team's offensive success in 2026. Balancing their touches and roles could present a challenge, but Moore believes the Saints have a plan to maximize the talents of both players.

The details

Kamara has been the Saints' lead back for the past several seasons, establishing himself as one of the NFL's most versatile offensive weapons. The team made a splash in free agency by signing Etienne, the former Clemson star, to bolster their backfield. Moore indicated the Saints intend to find ways to get both players heavily involved in the offense, rather than having one be the clear lead back.

  • The Saints spoke to reporters about their plans for Kamara and Etienne at the NFL's annual league meetings on March 30, 2026.

The players

Kellen Moore

The head coach of the New Orleans Saints.

Alvin Kamara

The Saints' star running back who has been with the team since 2017.

Travis Etienne

The running back the Saints signed in free agency after he starred at Clemson University.

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What they’re saying

“Really excited about signing Travis. Obviously Alvin, we love Alvin. He means the world to all of us.”

— Kellen Moore, Head Coach, New Orleans Saints

What’s next

The Saints will need to determine how to best utilize Kamara and Etienne in their offense during training camp and the preseason to ensure both players are productive and happy with their roles.

The takeaway

The Saints' decision to add Etienne to their backfield alongside the established star Kamara signals their intent to field one of the NFL's most dynamic rushing attacks in 2026. Balancing the touches between the two will be crucial, but Moore expressed confidence the team can find a way for both to thrive.