Clyde Edwards-Helaire Joins Saints on One-Year Deal, Seeking Career Revival
Once a highly touted first-round pick, Clyde Edwards-Helaire has struggled to maintain his status as a starting NFL running back. However, a new opportunity awaits him with the New Orleans Saints as the team’s recently appointed head coach, Kellen Moore, evaluates his potential fit.
On Thursday, Edwards-Helaire officially signed a one-year deal with the Saints, extending his stay in New Orleans after joining the team late last season. With a fresh coaching staff set to take over, this offseason will serve as a critical period for the former LSU standout to prove himself.
A Fresh Start in New Orleans
After being waived by the Kansas City Chiefs, the Saints quickly acquired Edwards-Helaire in free agency. His time in Kansas City had seen a dramatic decline, as younger talents like Isiah Pacheco overtook him on the depth chart. Last season, he did not play a single game for the Chiefs and was ultimately replaced by veteran running back Kareem Hunt.
Upon arriving in New Orleans, Edwards-Helaire was thrust into action due to injuries to star running back Alvin Kamara. Though his playing time was limited, he managed 46 rushing yards on 13 carries over the final two games of the season. Now, with a full offseason ahead, he has a chance to carve out a more defined role in the Saints’ backfield.
Crowded Running Back Room
The Saints’ running-back situation remains competitive. Kamara, the team’s longtime starter, is under contract through 2026 after signing an extension last season. Additionally, the team has third-year back Kendre Miller, who remains in the mix for playing time. Veteran Jamaal Williams, despite struggling to establish himself in the Saints’ rotation, is also under contract for another season.
While Kamara remains the primary weapon, Edwards-Helaire will compete for touches. His versatility as a rusher and receiver out of the backfield could help him earn playing time if he can recapture his form from his LSU days.
From First-Round Pick to Depth Player
Edwards-Helaire entered the NFL with high expectations after an impressive collegiate career. As part of LSU’s undefeated 2019 national championship team, he showcased his dual-threat ability, rushing for 803 yards and accumulating 453 receiving yards on 55 catches. His performance caught the eye of the Chiefs, who selected him with the final pick of the first round in the 2020 NFL Draft.
His rookie season showed flashes of promise, as he rushed for 803 yards and added 297 receiving yards. However, injuries soon derailed his progress. He missed 10 games between 2020 and 2021, leading the Chiefs to look elsewhere for stability at the position.
When Kansas City drafted Pacheco in 2022, it signaled a shift in their backfield. Pacheco’s emergence as a dynamic rusher, coupled with Edwards-Helaire’s injury struggles, led to a diminished role. By the time the 2023 season began, he had been relegated to a backup role and saw no game action before his release.
A Homecoming for the Louisiana Native
Now at 26 years old, Edwards-Helaire is seeking a fresh start in a familiar environment. Born in Baton Rouge, he returns to Louisiana, joining fellow LSU alumni Tyrann Mathieu and Foster Moreau on the Saints roster.
Despite his struggles, the Saints offer a potential opportunity for resurgence. If Edwards-Helaire can stay healthy and rediscover his pass-catching ability, he could add another dimension to the Saints’ offense under Kellen Moore.
This one-year deal represents a make-or-break season for the former first-rounder. With training camp approaching, he will have the chance to prove he still belongs in the league and can contribute to a backfield that remains in flux.
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