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Report: Alvin Kamara Expected Back at Saints Practice Wednesday
New Orleans tailback Alvin Kamara is expected to take part in practice Wednesday.
NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported Kamara had been away from the team for the past few days after receiving an epidural and needed to clear COVID-19 protocols before he could rejoin the New Orleans Saints.
Tom Pelissero @TomPelisseroJust said on @NFLTotalAccess: #Saints RB Alvin Kamara intends to show up tomorrow and practice after missing several days following an epidural shot in his back last Thursday. The sides weren't that far apart on an extension before things went sideways. @nflnetwork https://t.co/mdBqpoNGXG
Josina Anderson reported Wednesday that Kamara was "in the building."
Kamara's return came as the two sides continued discussing a new contract for the three-time Pro Bowler. Those talks took another turn Tuesday when trade rumors began swirling after it was reported the Saints were open to moving Kamara.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Monday that Kamara had three unexcused absences over the past three days and it was believed to have been related to his contract situation. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network spoke to Kamara on Tuesday, and the back said he did not ask for a trade and was not holding out.
Pelissero's report seemingly buttressed that narrative, but it didn't explain why the three absences weren't excused.
Kamara is in the final year of his rookie deal, so it makes sense he would be adamant about a new contract.
He's consistently been among the top running backs in the NFL since his Offensive Rookie of the Year season in 2017 and has helped the Saints reach the playoffs in each of the last three years. In the process, he's become an elite runner and pass-catcher.
Kamara has tallied 2,408 career rushing yards and 27 touchdowns while adding 2,068 receiving yards with another 10 scores.
As he prepares for his fourth season, he's due for a payday similar to what Christian McCaffrey earned (four years, $64 million).