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Why the Saints, Browns, and Chiefs Are Scouting the Running Back Trade Market
With NFL training camps winding down and final roster cutdowns looming, a select number of teams are actively looking to upgrade their rosters via trade. The running back position, in particular, has become a focus for several clubs. While some teams are looking for a spark to boost their offense, others are simply searching for a reliable player to shore up a position lacking depth. According to recent reports, three notable teams—the New Orleans Saints, Cleveland Browns, and Kansas City Chiefs—are all monitoring the trade market for a potential running back acquisition.
New Orleans Saints: The Need for a Reliable Complement
The Saints have one of the league’s most dynamic running backs in Alvin Kamara. However, after Kamara, the depth chart is a question mark. While players like Kendre Miller, Cam Akers, and Clyde Edwards-Helaire are on the roster, none have solidified themselves as a clear No. 2 option. This lack of a dependable backup could put an immense workload on Kamara, who has battled injuries in the past. The Saints are likely seeking a durable, consistent runner who can provide a change of pace and take some pressure off their star back.
Cleveland Browns: Bolstering the Ground Attack
The Browns have one of the best offensive lines in the NFL, which is a perfect foundation for a strong running game. However, with questions surrounding their quarterback situation, the team is reportedly looking to make a significant move to strengthen the rushing attack. A trade for a proven running back would allow the Browns to lean on their dominant offensive line and a run-first philosophy, which would take pressure off their quarterback and help them control the clock.
Kansas City Chiefs: Searching for a Third-Down Specialist
Despite having the electric Isiah Pacheco, the Chiefs are reportedly looking for a specific kind of running back: a pass-catching specialist. The team has been unable to replace the role previously held by Jerick McKinnon, a reliable third-down back with a knack for making crucial plays in the passing game. The Chiefs’ front office is looking for a player who can fill this void, and recent preseason performances have done little to inspire confidence in the current backup options. A trade for a veteran pass-catching back would give Patrick Mahomes another weapon out of the backfield and add another dimension to the Chiefs’ dynamic offense.
Potential Trade Candidate on the Market
One player who could fit the needs of all three teams is Commanders running back Brian Robinson Jr. With his team reportedly satisfied with the performance of their younger backs in the preseason, Robinson has become a prime trade candidate. He is a proven, physical runner who could provide the reliable depth the Saints need, the punishing style the Browns want, and the pass-catching ability the Chiefs are looking for. His situation is one to watch closely as the preseason winds down.
The final roster cuts are just around the corner, which means the running back trade market is about to heat up. It remains to be seen which teams will pull the trigger, but for the Saints, Browns, and Chiefs, the time to address their running back situation is now.
NFL, Roster Analysis
NFL Trade Rumors, New Orleans Saints, Cleveland Browns, Kansas City Chiefs