The New Orleans Saints are preparing for their Week 15 clash against the New York Jets this Sunday, but a major question mark hangs over the availability of their star running back, Alvin Kamara. The dynamic player has been sidelined for the team's last three outings, leaving a noticeable void in the Saints' offensive backfield.
Kamara's Injury Timeline and Cryptic Coach Update
Alvin Kamara sustained significant knee and ankle injuries during the Saints' Week 12 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. Since that game, he has been forced to watch from the sidelines as his team faced the Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Carolina Panthers. The Saints managed to secure victories in their last two games against the Buccaneers and Panthers, but Kamara's explosive playmaking was dearly missed.
Head coach Kellen Moore provided a less-than-reassuring update last week ahead of the Panthers game. When asked about Kamara's potential return, Moore offered a cryptic "We'll see," shortly before the runner was officially ruled out. This has left fans and analysts speculating about the true severity of the injury and the timeline for his comeback.
Commitment Amidst Trade Rumors and Sunday's Crucial Practice
The uncertainty surrounding Kamara's immediate future comes after a period of trade speculation back in October 2025. At the time, Kamara addressed the rumors with a mix of professionalism and humour. He told ESPN that his approach was to keep his head down and focus on his game. He joked that if Saints general manager Mickey Loomis ever informed him of a trade, his plan would be to "go drink a piña colada somewhere." This statement underscored his relaxed demeanor but also his commitment to the team as long as he remains a Saint.
All attention now shifts to the Saints' first practice session ahead of the Jets game. This practice will be a critical indicator of Kamara's game-day status. As of now, neither the New Orleans Saints organisation nor Kamara himself has confirmed whether he will be medically cleared to take the field on Sunday. His participation in practice drills, especially those involving contact, will be closely monitored.
Impact on Saints' Season and Playoff Hopes
The Saints' performance this season has been average, and the absence of a weapon like Alvin Kamara undoubtedly affects their offensive consistency and threat level. His dual-threat capability as both a rusher and a receiver is a cornerstone of their game plan. While the team has found ways to win without him, his return would provide a massive boost as they navigate the final stretch of the regular season and push for a stronger playoff position.
The upcoming game against the New York Jets presents a significant challenge. The Jets' defence is known for its toughness, and having Kamara in the lineup would force them to account for his unique skill set, opening up opportunities for other players. The decision on his return will be a delicate balance between the medical team's clearance and the coaching staff's assessment of his readiness to perform at his elite level without risk of re-injury.
