The life of an NFL running back is often short and cyclical. Rookies frequently encroach on veteran playing time, offering youth, athleticism, and a smaller cap hit.
New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara epitomized this process in his rise to prominence, but in 2025, his time as an undisputed starting running back may be nearing a close. Kamara’s struggles have been amplified by New Orleans’ futility, and in Week 12, an ankle injury has added to his troubles.
How Is Alvin Kamara’s Ankle Feeling Now?
Kamara first popped up on the injury report in Week 6 with his ankle ailment. He was a limited participant in each day of practice and carried a questionable tag into the contest against the New England Patriots.
That’s been a trend for Kamara, who gets some extra rest because of his veteran status. He’s been a limited participant in nearly every practice since, and has been listed as questionable most weeks.
Week 12 will see more of the same. According to Matthew Paras, Kamara will once again be questionable when the Saints host the Atlanta Falcons. “Kellen Moore: Taliese Fuaga, Alvin Kamara and Barry Wesley are questionable for Sunday’s game against the Falcons,” he wrote.
Kellen Moore: Taliese Fuaga, Alvin Kamara and Barry Wesley are questionable for Sunday’s game against the Falcons
— Matthew Paras (@Matthew_Paras) November 21, 2025
Kamara is currently expected to play. Doing so, however, doesn’t guarantee much success. His efficiency has declined significantly in 2025, setting career-worst marks in yards per attempt (3.6) and yards per reception (5.9). He has scored just one touchdown through 10 games.
Likewise, he is the 28th-ranked running back by PFSN’s Running Back Impact metric. With middling efficiency and a smaller passing-game impact than years past, running back is no longer a strength for New Orleans.
The Saints’ offensive line hasn’t helped Kamara, either. As PFSN’s 28th-ranked unit, Kamara is operating from a disadvantageous position. New Orleans isn’t scoring touchdowns, isn’t throwing to its running backs, and isn’t playing from ahead, leaving little room for Kamara to leave a mark.
Atlanta’s defense has trended toward average in recent weeks, ranking 19th by PFSN’s Defense Impact metric. Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle was able to create big plays against the Falcons in Week 11. Should he play, Kamara could see a similar opportunity.
Ultimately, Kamara’s injury isn’t new, nor is it particularly concerning. It’s something he has dealt with for much of the season, and it doesn’t seem to impact his play more than age itself and New Orleans’ offensive line.
Having not missed time in 2025, there’s little reason to think that Week 12 will be much different.
