Why is Alvin Kamara not playing tonight? Exploring $24,500,000 Saints RB's absence for Week 16 MNF showdown
Alvin Kamara is one of the NFL's most popular running backs. The perennial Pro Bowler is one of the few offensive players on the New Orleans Saints who has enjoyed a productive personal season in a forgettable 2024.
However, Kamara, who signed a two-year, $24,500,000 extension with the Saints earlier this season (per Spotrac), has officially been ruled out of his team's Week 16 game against the Green Bay Packers on Monday night. Let's examine the reason behind the RB1's absence.
Why is Alvin Kamara not playing tonight?
According to CBS Sports, Alvin Kamara has a groin injury. The injury was serious enough to keep him out of this week's practice, so he won't be able to participate in tonight's game against the Green Bay Packers.
Due to his injury, Kamara will miss a regular-season game for the first time this season. Until now, the Tennessee product has been featured in every game and has led the team in rushing in all but two matchups. Kendre Miller will likely take over the RB1 slot in Kamara's absence, supported by Jordan Mims and Jamaal Williams.
Kamara isn't the only Saints member set to miss tonight's game. Star quarterback Derek Carr will be absent because of his lingering hand injury, while wide receivers Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Chris Olave are out due to ankle and head injuries, respectively.
How is Alvin Kamara performing this season?
Alvin Kamara is having one of his best seasons as a pro. The superstar running back leads the Saints in rushing and is one of their most consistent pass-catchers.
Kamara has amassed a stat line of 228 carries, 950 rushing yards and six touchdowns. He had also added 543 receiving yards and two touchdowns for good measure in 14 games. There aren't many running backs in the National Football League offering the complete offensive package like Kamara has done in 2024.
The New Orleans Saints will surely miss Kamara's productivity in the run game and in the receiving corps. They'll have their work cut out against a Green Bay Packers team galloping toward a playoff berth. Monday night has the potential of being a long one for the Saints, and they'll need to avoid any costly turnovers to ensure that the scoreline stays respectable.