The New Orleans Saints are doing their homework on running backs in the 2025 NFL Draft.
As the NFL Draft approaches, the Saints have made it clear they are looking to add to their running back room. After releasing veteran Jamaal Williams, New Orleans now houses six running backs on their roster.
Alvin Kamara has remained a top running back in the league over his career, but as he ages, the Saints are looking for a playmaker to take some of the load off of the former Pro Bowler. Kendre Miller has yet to live up to his third-round pick selection, and the Saints could look to move on from him. With new head coach Kellen Moore taking over, he holds no loyalties to previously drafted players and can look to make changes.
Ashton Jeanty - Boise State
Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty (2) Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
It was reported earlier in the week that Saints running backs coach Joel Thomas was in attendance for the Boise State Pro Day, eyeing Heisman runner-up Ashton Jeanty. New Orleans also hosted Jeanty for a dinner.
Jeanty is the most exciting of the running backs that New Orleans has met with. In 2024, the rising star ran for an absurd 2,601 yards and 29 touchdowns. During his three seasons at Boise State, Jeanty has accumulated 5,631 scrimmage yards and 56 total touchdowns.
Many believe New Orleans could pass on Jeanty, as they have other glaring holes on their roster. While there is no guarantee any player would be a star straight out of college, Jeanty is as close as you can get. Adding a player of the Heisman runner-up's caliber will contribute to the team in a multitude of ways, but most importantly by helping a future young QB with a successful run game.
While Jeanty is an enticing selection and would require the Saints to use their top-10 pick, the team is doing their due diligence on plenty of backs in the draft.
Trevor Etienne - Georgia
Georgia Bulldogs running back Trevor Etienne (1). © Melina Myers-Imagn Images © Melina Myers-Imagn Images
New Orleans hosted a large dinner with a crowd of Georgia Bulldogs players, including Louisiana native and starting Bulldogs running back Trevor Etienne. Etienne is projected to be a day-three pick and could be a late-round option for the Saints.
Brother of former Jacksonville Jaguars first-round pick Travis Etienne, Trevor ran for 2,081 yards during his three college seasons, resulting in 23 career touchdowns. Etienne also started to impact the game as a receiver during his final season, catching 32 passes for 194 yards.
At 5-foot-9, Etienne faces criticism over his size. The former Bulldog is a smart runner and combines vision with patience to earn yardage, but his lack of size and strength while running often results in the first defender making the tackle.
While he isn't a top back in the draft and will likely fall to day three, Etienne's low usage in college (371 carries) and game IQ is a good combination that can earn him a roster spot for the Saints.
Dylan Sampson - Tennessee
Tennessee Volunteers running back Dylan Sampson (6) © Steve Roberts-Imagn Images © Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson has been acknowledged as one of the top backs in the Draft and can go as early as the second round. The Saints met with the Baton Rouge native on Thursday.
Sampson's college career started slower than the previously named backs with 1,001 yards through his first two seasons. It wouldn't be until his final season as a Volunteer that the promising running back would break out, rushing for 1,491 yards and 22 touchdowns. Sampson also developed as a threat at receiver, catching 37 passes for 318 yards over his final two seasons.
Sampson excels as a playmaker. From his quick spin move to his jump cuts, the elusive back makes it difficult to take him down in the open field. Sampson pairs his bag of tricks with elite burst through the gaps.
Sampson also faces criticism over his size, but at 5-foot-8, the Volunteer standout makes up for it in speed and playmaking. The Saints have had success before taking running backs from Tennessee and may look to do it again after a meeting with Sampson.
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This story was originally published March 29, 2025 at 1:00 PM.