Alvin Kamara Trade Rumors 2025: Will the Broncos Acquire the Star Running Back?

By Jason Bolton June 30, 2025 06:07

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, trade rumors swirl around one of the league’s most dynamic running backs: Alvin Kamara. The Denver Broncos, under head coach Sean Payton, are rumored to be eyeing Kamara as a potential game-changer to bolster their offense. But will the Broncos actually acquire the star running back? Here’s a detailed look at the situation, backed by expert analysis, stats, and insider perspectives.

Alvin Kamara, a five-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, remains one of the NFL’s most versatile backs. Over eight seasons, he has amassed over 11,500 scrimmage yards, showcasing his ability to impact games both on the ground and through the air. Despite turning 30 next month, Kamara still averages over 100 total yards per game when healthy, though injuries have limited him to 14 games last season. His dual-threat skill set perfectly fits the mold of a “joker” player one who can be a reliable safety valve in the passing game and a threat on the ground.

The Broncos, fresh off their first playoff appearance in a decade led by quarterback Bo Nix, have aggressively upgraded their roster. They added running backs J.K. Dobbins and rookie RJ Harvey, as well as Pro Bowl tight end Evan Engram, aiming to surround Nix with playmakers. Yet, analyst Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports argues that adding Kamara could push Denver over the top. Benjamin writes, “Sean Payton was responsible for drafting and unleashing Kamara during his time with the Saints. Kamara’s best attribute is collecting passes out of the backfield; he could be Nix’s top safety valve”.

This reunion would reunite Payton with a familiar weapon, potentially accelerating the Broncos’ offensive development. Payton’s history with Kamara is notable he helped mold Kamara into one of the league’s most explosive backs during their time together in New Orleans. The prospect of rekindling that chemistry is tantalizing for Denver fans and the front office alike.

However, several factors complicate the potential trade. Kamara is approaching 30 and has a history of injuries, raising durability concerns. Financially, Kamara is due $10 million in 2025 and a hefty $18.5 million in 2026, which could strain Denver’s salary cap. Moreover, the Saints, under rookie head coach Kellen Moore, appear intent on building their offense around Kamara to support young quarterback Tyler Shough. Kamara himself recently signed a contract extension with New Orleans, signaling a desire to stay put.

From the Saints’ perspective, trading Kamara could save between $3 million and $7.1 million in dead money, but it would also mean losing a proven playmaker. For Denver, acquiring Kamara would require surrendering valuable draft capital and absorbing his salary, a gamble given the youth movement already underway in their backfield.

In summary, while the idea of Alvin Kamara joining the Broncos is compelling especially with Sean Payton at the helm the trade remains a complex proposition. As analyst Cody Benjamin cautions, “The Broncos’ youth movement in the backfield might conflict with acquiring the Saints’ soon-to-be 30-year-old running back”. Yet, if Payton believes Kamara can still deliver at a high level, the reunion could provide Denver with the versatile weapon they need to make a deep playoff run.

Ultimately, the 2025 offseason will reveal if the Broncos are willing to roll the dice on Kamara’s talent and experience or continue building around their younger core. For now, the trade rumors add an intriguing subplot to Denver’s promising season outlook.