New Orleans, Louisiana – After MVP Alvin Kamara departed from New Orleans, the Saints were left facing a significant void in their offensive lineup.

With a roster that has been competitive in recent years, the Saints needed to act swiftly to fill this gap and maintain their strength, particularly at the running back position.

Moreover, special teams also remained an area in need of improvement, and the team needed to ensure they addressed this in the upcoming NFL Draft.

In response, the Saints made a bold move to secure a young, dynamic running back with the potential to contribute immediately.

With their first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, they selected Jadarian Price, First-Team All-American from Notre Dame, as their answer to the missing piece in the backfield. This move not only strengthens the running back position but also adds a versatile talent that could elevate the Saints’ special teams play.

Price, known for his incredible college career, posted impressive numbers throughout his time at Notre Dame. Over two seasons, he accumulated 2,128 yards and 25 touchdowns, averaging 6.0 yards per carry.

His ability to break off big runs was evident as he led the NCAA in 2025 with 19% of his carries going for more than 10 yards, showcasing his game-changing ability.

Furthermore, Price was a standout on special teams, leading the FBS with an average of 37.5 yards per kickoff return and recording two touchdowns in the 2025 season.

“Jadarian Price is not just a great running back, but also a game-changer on special teams. His speed and playmaking ability make him the perfect fit for the Saints, both as a dynamic running back and a special teams contributor,” Adam Schefter remarked.

Selecting Price was a strategic decision for the Saints, as they not only address the gap left by Kamara’s departure but also enhance their special teams unit, which had become a focal point for the team in recent years.

With Price’s ability to impact both the offense and special teams, the Saints are poised to remain competitive in the NFC South and push for a playoff spot in the 2026 season.

By adding a young, explosive talent like Price, the Saints are ensuring they maintain a strong offensive attack and continue to excel in all aspects of the game. This move is a key step toward retooling the roster and preparing for future success. Price’s immediate impact could help the Saints remain contenders for years to come.