Saints and Alvin Kamara agree on a 2-year, $24.5 million contract extension

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The New Orleans Saints and running back Alvin Kamara have agreed on a two-year, $24.5 million contract extension that runs through the 2026 season.

The deal, announced by the Saints on Tuesday night, comes after Kamara expressed dissatisfaction with his contract situation during training camp — even as he decided against holding out.

The versatile Kamara has eclipsed 1,000 yards from scrimmage in all seven of his previous seasons and is the franchise’s all-time leader in touchdowns with 85.

Because of the way Kamara’s previous contract was structured, he was likely to be cut before next season, when he would have been due close to $25 million in non-guaranteed salary. Kamara said he wasn’t seeking a raise, but rather an extension that would provide him guaranteed money during future seasons.

Kamara said he decided against holding out because he did not want to let down teammates and coaches who, he noted, played no role in his previously stalled contract negotiations.

His 6,267 yards rushing ranks second in Saints history. He needs 234 yards to surpass Mark Ingram for that club record.