As the New Orleans Saints struggle through a disappointing 5-9 record in the 2024 NFL season, their playoff hopes have all but disappeared. With only three weeks remaining in the regular season, their postseason chances are slim, but technically still alive. The Saints’ remaining games will likely determine the course of their off-season plans, and their upcoming matchup with the Green Bay Packers in Week 16 offers a final opportunity to try and salvage a glimmer of hope for a late playoff push.
In preparation for the game against Green Bay, the Saints made a significant move to bolster their roster by signing Clyde Edwards-Helaire, a former running back for the Kansas City Chiefs who was recently waived by the Super Bowl champions. Edwards-Helaire’s addition to the Saints’ practice squad earlier this week adds an interesting dynamic to New Orleans’ backfield, especially given the uncertainty surrounding star running back Alvin Kamara’s availability for the Packers game.
Kamara, who has been a focal point of the Saints’ offense in recent years, is expected to miss Week 16 due to a thigh injury. As a result, the Saints have been seeking reinforcements in the running back department. Edwards-Helaire’s arrival could be timely, as the team works to fill the void left by Kamara’s absence, and it’s possible the 25-year-old will be promoted to the active roster ahead of Sunday’s contest at Lambeau Field.
Edwards-Helaire’s journey to the Saints’ practice squad has been a winding one. After beginning the 2024 season on the Chiefs’ non-football illness list, he did not see any game action during the season’s first 15 weeks. However, his talent and potential are hard to ignore. The former first-round pick (32nd overall) of the 2020 NFL Draft, Edwards-Helaire played three seasons with the Chiefs, contributing significantly to their offense during his time in Kansas City.
During his tenure with the Chiefs, Edwards-Helaire compiled 1,845 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns on 441 carries, showcasing his ability to be a productive and versatile back. While his time with the Chiefs was marked by moments of success, including a key role in Kansas City’s Super Bowl victory in 2020, Edwards-Helaire struggled with consistency and injuries, leading to his eventual release this season.
The call from the Saints was unexpected for Edwards-Helaire, but he quickly recognized the 504 area code when the Saints reached out. Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Edwards-Helaire is no stranger to the state of Louisiana, having played his college ball at LSU, where he was a standout player before entering the NFL. His connection to the region, combined with the opportunity to play for an NFL team in need of running back depth, made the offer from the Saints too good to pass up.
Edwards-Helaire’s addition to the Saints’ practice squad is an intriguing move for the team, given their current struggles and the uncertainty of Kamara’s injury. If Kamara is ultimately ruled out for the game against the Packers, Edwards-Helaire could be thrust into a prominent role, providing the Saints with an experienced option to contribute in the backfield. The Saints have been relying on a running back committee in recent weeks, but Edwards-Helaire’s skill set could add a new dimension to their offensive attack.
The Saints’ decision to sign Edwards-Helaire also signals their willingness to adapt to their current situation. With their playoff hopes on life support, they need to make bold moves to maximize their chances in these final weeks of the season. Adding a former first-round pick with proven NFL production is a calculated risk that could pay off if Edwards-Helaire is able to shake off the rust and contribute immediately.
For Edwards-Helaire, the opportunity to join the Saints offers a fresh start and a chance to prove himself after a disappointing stint with the Chiefs. He will be reunited with fellow LSU alum, quarterback Joe Burrow, and could be a key piece in the Saints’ attempt to make a late-season push. If he is able to play a significant role in the team’s offense, he could help to provide a spark for an offense that has struggled at times this season.
Edwards-Helaire’s arrival also speaks to the Saints’ ongoing effort to revamp their roster and add talent at key positions. While they have faced challenges this season, including injuries to key players like Kamara, the team is still focused on putting together a competitive squad. Signing a player of Edwards-Helaire’s caliber, even in the midst of a tough season, shows that the Saints are committed to making the most of their remaining games and giving themselves the best chance to succeed.
As the Saints head into their Week 16 matchup against the Packers, the focus will be on Edwards-Helaire’s potential role in the offense, as well as how the team adjusts to playing without Kamara. If Edwards-Helaire is called upon to start, it will be a pivotal moment in his career, as he looks to make an immediate impact in New Orleans. His addition could give the Saints the boost they need in a must-win game, though much will depend on his ability to integrate into the offense quickly and find success in the high-pressure environment of Lambeau Field.
For the Saints, the addition of Edwards-Helaire represents more than just a roster move—it’s a signal that they are not ready to give up on the 2024 season just yet. Despite their record, they are still mathematically in the hunt for a playoff spot and will need to give their best effort in the final stretch. The game against the Packers will be a critical test of their resilience, and with Edwards-Helaire potentially playing a key role, the Saints could have the spark they need to finish strong and keep their playoff dreams alive.
As for Edwards-Helaire, this is his opportunity to prove that he can still be a productive NFL running back. After a tough start to the 2024 season, he has the chance to revitalize his career in New Orleans and help the Saints make a late push for the postseason. While the odds may be stacked against the team, the addition of a talented back like Edwards-Helaire offers a glimmer of hope for a team that is still fighting to the very end.
