Alvin Kamara Named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year
New Orleans Saints running back **Alvin Kamara** was named the **NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year** after an outstanding 2017 season that saw him become one of the league’s most dynamic playmakers. Kamara, a third-round pick (67th overall) out of Tennessee, quickly emerged as a key weapon for the Saints’ offense, complementing veteran running back Mark Ingram and providing quarterback Drew Brees with a versatile threat in both the rushing and passing game.
Kamara’s impact was immediate, as he showcased his speed, agility, and elite pass-catching ability throughout the season. He finished the year with **728 rushing yards and eight rushing touchdowns** on just 120 carries, averaging an impressive **6.1 yards per carry**—the best among qualified running backs. In addition to his effectiveness on the ground, Kamara was a standout receiver, recording **81 receptions for 826 yards and five touchdowns**. His ability to make plays in open space made him a nightmare for defenders and a crucial component of Sean Payton’s offense.
Kamara’s **1,554 yards from scrimmage and 14 total touchdowns** ranked among the best in the NFL, and he was especially dangerous in the return game. He returned a kickoff **106 yards for a touchdown** against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 17, further proving his all-around explosiveness.
One of Kamara’s most memorable performances came in **Week 9 against the Buccaneers**, when he totaled **152 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns**, including a dazzling 33-yard catch-and-run score. In Week 13 against the Carolina Panthers, he had **126 total yards and two touchdowns**, helping the Saints secure a key divisional win.
His impact wasn’t just statistical—Kamara helped transform the Saints’ offense into one of the NFL’s most balanced attacks. With his emergence, the Saints went from a pass-heavy team to one that effectively utilized a two-headed rushing attack alongside Mark Ingram, ultimately finishing **11-5** and making the playoffs.
Kamara’s incredible season earned him **NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors**, edging out fellow standout rookie **Kareem Hunt of the Kansas City Chiefs**. He also earned a **Pro Bowl selection** and was named **first-team All-Pro as a return specialist**.
With his elite playmaking ability, Kamara quickly established himself as one of the NFL’s most electrifying young stars, setting the stage for a promising career in New Orleans.
