Kendre Miller Locks in Saints’ No. 2 Running Back Role with Consistent Preseason Performances…

Kendre Miller Locks in Saints’ No. 2 Running Back Role with Consistent Preseason Performances…

The New Orleans Saints entered the 2025 preseason with a handful of roster questions, none more pressing than how their backfield depth would shape up behind veteran starters. After three exhibition games and weeks of practice, one answer has become increasingly clear: Kendre Miller has secured the role of the team’s primary backup running back.

The second-year rusher has demonstrated not only steady growth but also a skill set that blends perfectly with the Saints’ offensive system under new head coach Kellen Moore. While Miller may not have the headline value of Alvin Kamara, his progression into a reliable RB2 option gives the Saints confidence in their ground game heading into the regular season.

One of Miller’s biggest strengths has been his ability to execute inside-zone concepts, a core component of Moore’s offensive philosophy. The scheme requires vision, patience, and decisive cuts—traits Miller has showcased consistently during camp and preseason outings.

In limited but meaningful preseason snaps, Miller proved capable of finding creases in the defensive line, pressing the hole with authority, and then slipping into second-level lanes with controlled acceleration. His footwork and balance have also drawn praise from teammates and coaches alike.

Offensive line coach Doug Marrone noted that Miller’s improvement has been noticeable in practice sessions:

> “He’s seeing things faster now. The game has slowed down for him, and that’s huge when you’re running zone plays. He trusts his blockers, and when he makes that cut, it’s with confidence.”

This ability to complement the Saints’ interior blocking schemes makes him a natural option to spell Kamara or handle early-down duties when needed.

Miller’s rookie year in 2024 was marked by flashes of promise but also growing pains common for first-year backs. He posted 365 rushing yards and two touchdowns across limited opportunities, but consistency and pass protection remained areas of concern.

Heading into his sophomore campaign, Miller committed himself to refining those elements of his game. He added muscle in the offseason without losing agility, worked closely with position coach Joel Thomas on recognition in blitz pickups, and studied tape to sharpen his decision-making.

The results have been evident. Quarterbacks Spencer Rattler and Tyler Shough have shown trust in Miller’s blocking, and his improved strength has allowed him to anchor better against linebackers. That growth has made him a more complete back, capable of being used in multiple packages.

Alvin Kamara remains the Saints’ featured weapon in both rushing and receiving roles, but at 29 years old and with significant mileage on his legs, the coaching staff is keen to manage his workload. Miller’s rise provides exactly the kind of depth needed to keep the veteran fresh over the course of a 17-game season.

Where Kamara is known for his elusiveness, versatility, and ability to create mismatches in space, Miller’s game is rooted more in downhill running and finishing through contact. Together, the duo offers a balanced contrast—Kamara as the dynamic playmaker and Miller as the steady chain-mover.

Moore acknowledged the benefit of having that pairing:

> “It’s about keeping defenses honest. Kamara gives us flexibility, but Miller brings that between-the-tackles toughness we want. Having both ready to go makes our offense harder to predict.”

Beyond his on-field growth, Miller has begun to find his voice in the locker room. Teammates have noted his increased confidence and willingness to step into a leadership role among younger players.

Wide receiver Chris Olave praised Miller’s maturity:

> “You can see the difference. He’s not just trying to survive camp anymore. He’s out there setting a tone, bringing energy, and pushing the tempo. That rubs off on all of us.”

This presence is particularly valuable as the Saints navigate a transitional period with new leadership on the sidelines and a quarterback competition still unfolding. Having reliable contributors like Miller step up helps stabilize the team dynamic.

The Saints open their regular season against the Carolina Panthers in Week 1, and the offense is expected to lean heavily on its ground game while the quarterback position continues to take shape. Miller’s emergence as RB2 ensures that the Saints can rotate backs effectively, sustain drives, and protect their passing game from overreliance.

Moreover, his growth gives the Saints flexibility in game planning. Should Kamara miss time due to injury or rest, Miller can handle an expanded workload without forcing the team to dramatically alter its approach. That type of insurance is invaluable in the modern NFL

, where depth often defines how well a roster weathers the long season.