Nov 9, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara (41) walks off the field after the game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Saints Predicted to Land Generational RB Prospect to Replace Alvin Kamara

Originally posted on New Orleans Saints on SI
By Zach Pressnell | Last updated Jan 30, 2026 4:35 PM ET

The New Orleans Saints need to hit big in the upcoming NFL Draft if they want to turn their franchise around.

They seemingly hit big with their potential franchise quarterback, as Tyler Shough looked very good down the stretch. He led the Saints to multiple wins, though his supporting cast was nothing to call home about.

This offseason, the Saints need to do everything in their power to bolster up Shough's supporting cast. They need to add another wide receiver or two for him to throw to, but they also need to strengthen up the running back room.

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Alvin Kamara is on his last leg in the NFL and he could use a young running back to split time and carries with him as his career comes to an end.

NFL.com's Eric Edholm recently put together a mock draft for the upcoming NFL Draft. Edholm predicted the Saints would select Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jeremiyah Love with the No. 8 overall pick in the first round.

Jeremiyah Love could be exactly what the Saints need

"The Saints don’t need to splurge for a back this early, but Love might be too good to pass up," Edholm wrote. "Kellen Moore thrived with a balanced Eagles attack in 2024, and he could add a terrific playmaker to a budding offense behind . Imagine Love’s spin moves on the Superdome turf -- it could be electric."

Love is the perfect back for the Saints to add. The only question would be whether it's too early to draft him in the top 10. With that in mind, the Saints could entertain a slight trade down to the 12 or 13 range in order to add more draft capital and still land their generational running back.

But if the Saints are certain about Love, they could use the No. 8 overall pick on him.

He's looked like a generational talent for a few years now. He has the speed and playmaking ability to carve up defenses. Adding him next to Kamara would keep both backs fresh for the next year or two, while Love could take over as the bellcow back when Kamara's time is up.

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This article first appeared on New Orleans Saints on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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