On the first day of the 2026 NFL free agency, the New Orleans Saints signed running back Travis Etienne Jr. to a four-year contract worth $13 million annually, signaling a major shift in their offensive backfield. This acquisition raised questions about the future of Alvin Kamara, the longtime Saints star, as ESPN insider Adam Schefter revealed that multiple teams are monitoring whether New Orleans might consider trading Kamara.
Following a recent contract restructure, the Saints appear to have newfound flexibility to explore trade options for Kamara. With Etienne expected to take on a leading role in the backfield, several franchise contenders have surfaced as potential destinations for the versatile running back.
Possible teams interested in acquiring Alvin Kamara
The Las Vegas Raiders hope their 2025 first-round pick, Ashton Jeanty, can improve on an impressive rookie season that saw him lead all rookies with 1,321 yards from scrimmage and accumulate 975 rushing yards despite a less-than-ideal offensive line. While Jeanty’s development is promising, pairing him with a proven veteran like Alvin Kamara could enhance the Raiders’ backfield efficiency in 2026.
At 30 years old, Kamara may have slowed somewhat from his peak years, yet his ability to contribute both as a runner and receiver remains valuable. His dual-threat skill set would complement Jeanty’s strengths and offer Las Vegas a versatile one-two punch that could help diversify their ground game.
After moving on from Aaron Jones, the Minnesota Vikings are actively searching for running back reinforcements. Prior to Etienne’s signing with New Orleans, Minnesota was reportedly interested in acquiring him. With that option off the table, the Vikings may turn their attention to Kamara, whose career statistics include 7,250 rushing yards and 61 rushing touchdowns across 126 games, as well as 606 receptions for nearly 5,000 yards and 25 touchdowns out of the backfield.
Integrating Kamara could provide the Vikings a dynamic complement to Jordan Mason and strengthen their offensive options in the backfield.
Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton shares a history of success with Alvin Kamara from their time together in New Orleans, making the Broncos an intriguing potential trade partner. Despite recently re-signing J.K. Dobbins for two more years, the Broncos might see value in adding Kamara’s veteran presence and versatility.
Kamara narrowly missed a 1,000-yard rushing season in 2024, demonstrating his continued ability to influence games effectively. His familiarity with Payton’s offensive schemes could allow for a smooth transition if he were to join the Broncos.
The Chargers possess a talented young running back in Omarion Hampton, but his rookie year in 2025 was heavily impacted by injuries. While the team remains confident in Hampton’s potential, uncertainty about his recovery pace may prompt the Chargers to consider acquiring a seasoned back like Kamara.
Kamara’s addition would bring a reliable playmaker capable of sharing the workload, helping to ease pressure on Hampton while boosting the Chargers’ offensive depth.
New York’s rookie running back Cam Skattebo showed promise early in his first season before a significant ankle injury prematurely ended his 2025 campaign. The Giants are reportedly exploring options to bolster their running back corps, with Kamara emerging as a potential veteran target.
With the arrival of coach John Harbaugh and a clear intent to contend immediately, Kamara’s experience and playmaking skill set could play a critical role in helping the Giants improve their ground game and overall offensive balance.
Implications for the Raiders and NFL trade landscape
The possible trade of Alvin Kamara would have a significant influence on multiple NFL teams, especially the Las Vegas Raiders as they look to build around their young talent like Ashton Jeanty. Securing a player of Kamara’s caliber could transform their offensive identity by adding versatility and a dynamic dual-threat presence in the backfield.
For the Saints, moving Kamara would mark a substantial transition toward younger talent led by Etienne, but it also opens the door for Kamara to extend his impact on a new team eager for veteran leadership and playmaking. Any trade involving Kamara will command considerable attention as the NFL offseason progresses, with teams weighing the balance between immediate enhancement and future development.
As trade discussions unfold, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the Las Vegas Raiders emerge as the next destination for Alvin Kamara, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape for the 2026 season.
“With the Saints reaching agreement today with RB Travis Etienne, there now are questions around the league about whether RB Alvin Kamara will be moving on from New Orleans and whether the Saints would be willing to trade him,” Schefter said. “Teams are tracking and wondering about it.”
— Adam Schefter, ESPN Insider
With the Saints reaching agreement today with RB Travis Etienne, there now are questions around the league about whether RB Alvin Kamara will be moving on from New Orleans and whether the Saints would be willing trade him. Teams are tracking and wondering about it. pic.twitter.com/2U5Q6FFkvZ
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 10, 2026
