Alvin Kamara says he's grateful for the Saints' strong fanbase
"I love this city. I love the fans. I love these people that support me ... These people love me like I'm family & I feel the same way." pic.twitter.com/7JhUyEmYTR
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) September 8, 2024
Alvin Kamara looked like his old self against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. The New Orleans Saints running back didn't just hit paydirt and score a touchdown -- he was recognized by the Caesars Superdome gameday ops crew for achieving his fiftieth career game with 100-plus scrimmage yards, trailing only Christian McCaffrey (55) for the most among active players).
Be sure to enjoy it while he's here. Kamara and the Saints couldn't reach an agreement on a new deal before his deadline at the start of the season, not wanting contract talks to linger as a distraction into the fall. He's owed $25 million in 2025 but the Saints can cut him without having to pay a penny of that. There's no way he plays on that contract.
But Kamara has said before he wants to remain in New Orleans for the rest of his career, and he reiterated that point after Sunday's big win. Kamara says that when he says he wants to be a Saint for life, he means it. The Who Dat Nation accepting him and his family with open arms is a big reason for that.
"I love this city. I love the fans. I love these people that support me," Kamara told reporters after the game. "These people love me like I'm family, and I feel the same way."
Obviously, Kamara continuing to play well in Klint Kubiak's offense will go a long way towards helping him sign an extension with the Saints in the spring. Gaining confidence in his longevity at a position not known for having many 29-year-old stars could help Mickey Loomis grow more comfortable in meeting his contract terms. And he's off to a hot start. Kamara ran for 83 yards and gained 27 more as a receiver. Let's see if he can keep it up through a long 2024 season.
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This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Alvin Kamara says he's grateful for the Saints' strong fanbase