The New Orleans Saints have been dealt a blow with the news that running back Jamaal Williams is expected to miss time due to a hamstring injury. Williams sustained the injury during the first half of the Saints’ recent victory over the Carolina Panthers. Although he only played 18 snaps in that game, his absence leaves a void in the team’s running back corps.
With star running back Alvin Kamara serving a suspension and Kendre Miller inactive, the Saints found themselves with limited options after Williams’ injury. The team had to rely on practice squad running back Tony Jones Jr. and even quarterback Taysom Hill to handle the remainder of the carries in the second half. This lack of depth in the running back position is a cause for concern for the Saints going forward.
Fortunately for the Saints, they will likely have Kendre Miller back in action for their upcoming game against the Green Bay Packers. Miller, a rookie third-round pick, has yet to make his NFL debut due to a hamstring injury. However, according to coach Dennis Allen, Miller is expected to be fully recovered and ready to contribute. Allen stated that Miller’s absence in the previous game was primarily due to a lack of practice reps rather than physical limitations.
Adding to the Saints’ running back dilemma is the ongoing suspension of Alvin Kamara. Kamara has been sidelined for three games due to a violation of the NFL’s personal conduct policy. Despite the absence of both Williams and Kamara, coach Allen indicated that the team does not plan to sign another running back this week.
In the absence of their main running backs, Taysom Hill and Tony Jones Jr. stepped up to fill the void. Hill, primarily a quarterback, carried the ball nine times against the Panthers, accumulating an impressive 75 yards on the ground. Jones also had a solid performance, with 12 carries for 34 yards and two touchdowns. While their efforts were commendable, the Saints will need a more balanced and sustainable running game moving forward.
The New Orleans Saints are facing significant challenges in their running back position. With Jamaal Williams expected to miss time due to a hamstring injury and Alvin Kamara serving a suspension, the team’s depth at the position has been severely tested. The return of Kendre Miller provides a glimmer of hope, but the Saints must find a way to overcome their current limitations and establish a more stable running game in order to remain competitive.
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