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Saints Eye Aaron Jones Amid Kamara Suspension

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 13:36 GMT by Sporting News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

New Orleans, LA - February 17th, 2026 - The New Orleans Saints are aggressively exploring options to bolster their running back corps in the wake of Alvin Kamara's ongoing suspension and are seriously considering veteran Aaron Jones, recently released by the Green Bay Packers. This development has ignited speculation about Kamara's long-term future with the team, potentially opening the door for a trade.

Kamara is currently serving a three-game suspension stemming from off-field incidents. While the Saints have publicly maintained a degree of support for the star running back, the team's interest in Jones suggests a willingness to explore alternatives, and potentially recoup some value for Kamara before his contract expires.

Jeremy Fowler of ESPN reported earlier this week that the Saints are considered a frontrunner to sign Jones. The 29-year-old Jones boasts a proven track record of success, having amassed 6,498 rushing yards and 49 touchdowns over six seasons with the Packers. Beyond his rushing prowess, Jones is a versatile weapon, having caught 395 passes for 3,337 yards and another six touchdowns - attributes that align with the Saints' offensive scheme.

A Dual-Threat Backfield?

The signing of Jones doesn't automatically signal the end of Kamara's tenure in New Orleans. The Saints could envision a scenario where both players coexist, particularly if Kamara returns motivated and focused. However, Kamara's contract presents a significant financial hurdle. He is slated to earn $10 million in 2024, with a hefty $15.5 million cap hit if he remains on the roster. Trading Kamara would free up substantial cap space, allowing the Saints to invest in other areas of need, particularly along the offensive line or at quarterback - a position that has seen its own turmoil with Derek Carr's recent injury concerns.

While Jones would undoubtedly elevate the Saints' running game immediately, his acquisition wouldn't come cheap. The Saints would need to factor in his salary demands and potential signing bonus. This makes the Kamara trade discussion even more pertinent. A potential trade partner would likely seek a player who can contribute immediately, and Kamara, despite his suspension, still possesses considerable value. However, his legal issues and the suspension could temper the return the Saints receive.

Exploring Alternative Options

The Saints aren't limiting their search to Jones and Kamara. Other free agent running backs, such as Javonte Williams and Austin Ekeler, remain on the market and could provide viable alternatives. Williams, coming off an injury, might be available at a more reasonable price, while Ekeler, though aging, remains a dangerous dual-threat back. Internally, the Saints also have Tony Jones Jr. and Kendre Miller vying for carries. Miller, a rookie, showed flashes of potential last season, and the team could see him as a future cornerstone at the position. However, relying solely on unproven players would be a risky proposition.

The Bigger Picture: Saints' Offensive Rebuild The Saints' pursuit of a running back is part of a larger offensive rebuild following a disappointing 2024 season. The team is looking to rejuvenate its running game, which struggled at times last year, and provide more support for a passing attack that needs to regain its efficiency. The injury to Derek Carr further complicates matters, and the team is evaluating its quarterback options for the future. A strong running game can alleviate pressure on any quarterback, be it Carr upon his return, or a potential newcomer.

The next few weeks will be crucial for the Saints. They must weigh the cost of signing Jones against the potential return from trading Kamara, all while evaluating other free agent and internal options. The decision will have a significant impact on the team's offensive identity and its chances of competing in a highly competitive NFC South division. Fans are eagerly awaiting a resolution, hoping to see the Saints build a potent and sustainable running attack for years to come. The team's 53-man roster projection, and the battles unfolding in training camp, will offer further clues as to their final direction.