Saints Continue Offseason Roster Shakeup

New Orleans bolsters running back room with big free agent signing as draft approaches.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 7:30pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a fragmented, geometric interpretation of a Saints running play, with sharp planes of navy, green, and gold representing the explosive energy of the team's backfield.The Saints' offseason roster moves aim to inject more dynamism and big-play ability into their ground game.New Orleans Today

The New Orleans Saints have been active this offseason, making key moves to reshape their roster ahead of the upcoming NFL Draft. One of the team's biggest additions was signing free agent running back Travis Etienne to a four-year, $52 million contract, solidifying the backfield as the Saints look to improve on their ground game.

Why it matters

The Saints' running game struggled at times last season, so the Etienne signing represents an effort to upgrade that unit and provide more explosive playmaking ability. With the draft looming, the Saints may not be done making changes to their roster as they aim to build a contender in the NFC South.

The details

The Saints signed Etienne, a former first-round pick, to a lucrative deal in free agency. Etienne is expected to take over as the team's lead back after the Saints parted ways with veteran Alvin Kamara earlier this offseason. The Saints' running back room is now crowded, with Etienne joining a group that includes Jamaal Williams and Tony Jones Jr.

  • The Saints signed Etienne on March 15, 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26 in Pittsburgh.

The players

Travis Etienne

A 25-year-old running back who the Saints signed to a four-year, $52 million contract in free agency.

Alvin Kamara

The Saints' former starting running back who was released earlier this offseason.

Jamaal Williams

A running back on the Saints' roster who will compete for carries alongside Etienne.

Tony Jones Jr.

A running back on the Saints' roster who will compete for carries alongside Etienne.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to add a dynamic playmaker like Travis to our offense. He's a perfect fit for what we want to do, and we think he can really help take our running game to the next level.”

— Mickey Loomis, Saints General Manager

What’s next

The Saints will continue evaluating their roster and options ahead of the NFL Draft, where they could look to add more depth and competition at running back or other positions of need.

The takeaway

The Saints' signing of Travis Etienne signals their intent to revamp their running game and provide more explosive plays on offense. With the draft approaching, the team may not be done making moves to improve the roster and position themselves as a contender in the NFC South.