Beat: Kamara (knee) won't have huge role if active
NBC Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Alvin Kamara is recovering ahead of schedule from an MCL injury sustained three weeks ago and is expected to play in Week 1 as a passing-down specialist, with Travis Etienne leading the team's carries and primary red zone role.
- Kamara has logged limited practice sessions early in the week and is traveling with the team, though his full participation on Friday remains uncertain; he needs to avoid setbacks to play Sunday.
- Saints running back Tyrion Miller, recovering from an ACL tear, has been active in preseason and is serving as a primary backup and handcuff to Etienne, showing promise despite minor injury concerns.
- Backup RB Audric Estime is ruled out with a thigh injury, while Devin Neal and Ty Chandler have returned to practice and are competing for backup roles behind Etienne.
- Kamara’s absence boosts Travis Etienne’s workload and PPR value, especially in the early weeks, while Kamara remains a potential low-end FLEX option once fully healthy, possibly returning by Week 2 or 3.
