Saints Target Aaron Jones Amid Kamara Uncertainty

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. -target-aaron-jones-amid-kamara-uncertainty.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 14:41 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Louisiana, Wisconsin, UNITED STATES

Saints Eye Aaron Jones to Bolster Running Back Room Amidst Kamara Uncertainty

The New Orleans Saints are poised to be significant players in the upcoming free agency period, with a clear emphasis on strengthening their running back corps. The team is navigating a complex situation with star running back Alvin Kamara, whose future remains clouded by ongoing legal issues, and is proactively exploring all available options to ensure a potent ground game in the 2026 season.

The most prominent name surfacing as a potential addition is veteran running back Aaron Jones, recently released by the Green Bay Packers. Reports indicate the Saints have already signaled a strong interest, with one team front-office member telling ESPN's Adam Schefter, simply, "He's a baller." This enthusiastic endorsement hints at a serious consideration of Jones as a key piece of their offensive puzzle.

Jones, despite his age, remains a highly effective runner and receiver. In the 2023 season, he amassed an impressive 1,055 rushing yards and four touchdowns. Beyond his ability to grind out yardage, Jones provides a significant receiving threat out of the backfield, adding another dimension to an offense. He registered 189 receiving yards and two touchdowns last year, showcasing his versatility. This dual-threat capability is highly valued in today's NFL, where running backs are increasingly expected to contribute in all facets of the game.

The Saints' interest in Jones is inextricably linked to the situation surrounding Alvin Kamara. While Kamara is currently under contract, his future is uncertain due to pending legal proceedings that led to a six-game suspension last season for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. The legal issues and potential disciplinary action could significantly impact Kamara's availability and role within the team. The Saints are clearly preparing for multiple scenarios, from Kamara remaining a central figure to him being absent or limited.

Should Kamara return and maintain his position as the lead back, Jones would seamlessly slot into a valuable backup role. His experience and skill set would provide a reliable change of pace and a safe option for head coach Dennis Allen, especially given Kamara's recent injury history. This provides a level of depth and insurance rarely seen in a position prone to injury. However, if the legal situation forces the Saints to part ways with Kamara, or if further disciplinary action limits his playing time, Jones could very well become the focal point of the Saints' running attack. This makes him an extremely valuable asset and explains the team's quick pursuit.

The Saints aren't limiting their exploration to just Jones, however. Javonte Williams and Tony Pollard have also been mentioned as potential free agency targets. Williams, recovering from a significant knee injury, represents a high-upside option if he returns to his previous form. Pollard, formerly with the Dallas Cowboys, could offer a different style of running, emphasizing speed and agility. However, Jones arguably presents the most balanced and immediately impactful option. He's a known commodity with a proven track record of success, requiring less of a gamble than players recovering from injury or adjusting to a new system.

The signing of Jones wouldn't just address the immediate need at running back; it also sends a message about the Saints' competitive ambition. New Orleans is clearly aiming to contend in a highly competitive NFC, and securing a proven veteran like Jones demonstrates a commitment to providing quarterback Derek Carr with the tools he needs to succeed. A strong running game can alleviate pressure on the passing attack, open up opportunities for receivers, and control the clock, all crucial elements for a winning formula.

Ultimately, the Saints' decision will hinge on the resolution of the Kamara situation and the financial terms they can negotiate with Jones. But one thing is clear: the Saints are determined to establish a dominant running game, and Aaron Jones is at the very top of their list to help them achieve that goal.