Saints expected to sign Kareem Hunt following Alvin Kamara suspension, per report

The Saints’ depth at running back took a major hit over the weekend. Not only did they lose Alvin Kamara to a three-game suspension, but they also found out that Eno Benjamin will be lost for the season after tearing his Achilles. 

Although the Saints still have two very viable running backs on the roster in Jamaal Williams and rookie Kendre Miller, the team is also looking to add some depth. According to ESPN, the Saints are expected to sign running back Kareem Hunt if he passes his physical. The veteran running back visited with the team on Monday.

The 28-year-old spent his past four seasons in Cleveland, but the Browns decided to let his contract expire following the 2022 season. Hunt could have been re-signed by the Browns, but, according to one report, the team believes his speed is slipping, which is one reason why they let him head into free agency. 

Last season was arguably the worst one of Hunt’s career with the running back averaging a career-low 3.8 yards per carry, marking the first time in his six-year career that he finished under 4.2 yards. That being said, Hunt has shown plenty of spark in his career. During his rookie season with the Chiefs in 2017, Hunt rushed for 1,327 yards, which led the NFL. 

Although Hunt wasn’t great last season, he still managed to total 678 yards, with 468 coming on the ground and 210 through the air. Hunt could be a good fit for a Saints team that won’t need to him to play every down. 

Not only is Hunt expected to sign with the Saints, but so is linebacker Anthony Barr as well, per ESPN. The team is looking for some depth at linebacker after Demario Davis suffered a calf injury.