Saints are looking to add more firepower at an already loaded position
The offense of the New Orleans Saints will be fun to watch next season with Derek Carr at the helm, wide receivers Michael Thomas and Chris Olave, plus a two-headed attack at running back with Alvin Kamara and Jamaal Williams. Despite having multiple threats in the backfield, the Saints are doing their homework to add […]
The offense of the New Orleans Saints will be fun to watch next season with Derek Carr at the helm, wide receivers Michael Thomas and Chris Olave, plus a two-headed attack at running back with Alvin Kamara and Jamaal Williams.
Despite having multiple threats in the backfield, the Saints are doing their homework to add more in the NFL draft. On Wednesday, they hosted DeWayne McBride out of UAB and TCU's Kendre Miller on pre-draft visits.
McBride had two excellent seasons to end his career at UAB. In 2021, he ran for 1,371 yards and 13 touchdowns averaging 6.7 yards per carry and earned second-team All-C-USA honors. Last season, McBride was even better with 1,713 yards which led the nation. His 19 rushing touchdowns were second in the country and set a school record. McBride was selected first-team All-C-USA and named the conference Offensive Player of the Year.
Due to a hamstring injury, McBride will workout out privately on April 21 for teams across the league. More than likely, McBride will be selected at the end of Day 2 or the beginning of Day 3 in the draft, and he's certainly someone the Saints could use on their offense.
Miller started his career with the Horned Frogs in 2020. He only rushed for 388 yards and 623 respectively in his first two seasons, but he averaged 7.4 yards per carry during that span. Last season, Miller was a first-team All-Big 12 selection as he ran for 1,399 yards (third in the conference) and 17 touchdowns which were tied for fourth in the nation.
An MCL injury suffered during TCU's victory over Michigan in the College Football Playoff has prohibited Miller from workout for teams before the draft. However, he's already been seen squatting 300 pounds, and like McBride, he should get selected around rounds three or four.
Neither McBride nor Miller has shown much in the passing game. However, that can develop over time with more opportunities, and both have undeniable skills as runners with good speed, elusiveness, and balance.
The Saints would benefit from either one of these runners.
