Alvin Kamara wasn't present for New Orleans Saints organized team activities, but that's nothing new. These practices aren't mandatory, and Kamara is typically absent. He's shown a history of being prepared for the season, so there's no question he'll be ready when mandatory minicamp rolls around.
Kamara's absence provided the stage for the battle behind Kamara to be more in the spotlight. That battle is open, but we know who the most likely candidates are. Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Kendre Miller and Devin Neal are vying for this spot. All three of these players split time working with the first team offense.
As minicamp begins, the competing running backs will see less touches with the first team. Whoever gets the most stnaps alongside Kamara with the starters will become the latest focus.
Kendre Miller vs. Devin Neal vs. Clyde Edwards-Helaire
Even with Cam Akers coming in for a tryout, it still feels like the battle comes down to Edwards-Helaire, Neal and Miller. Akers may join the Saints for training camp, but he'd face an uphill climb to get into the top-three at the position.
Edwards-Helaire is another veteran running back in the room, like Akers. If Akers makes the training camp roster, he'd join the former Chief in hopes to show the Saints shouldn't lean completely on the younger players.
When it comes to veterans, trying to make the roster is the focus. When it comes to Kendre Miller, many want to know if he can deliver on the promise he's shown in his earlier seasons. At full health, he seems like the candidate most likely to share time with Kamara. The problem has always been Miller is rarely at full health.
Miller's constant battles with injuries opens the door for other competitors. Even if he looks great throughout training camp, there's always going be the question of durability hanging over Miller. Insert Devin Neal.
Neal was a late round pick, but there are higher hopes around him than the typical sixth rounder. Next to Miller, Neal is the next most likely running back to make the roster.
If the Saints only keep three running backs, Neal will be battling with the veterans to make the main roster opposed to being a part of the practice squad. With a strong offseason, Neal may be able to push Miller for second on the depth chart.
