Kellen Moore Wants Two Running Backs and the Saints Draft Plan is Taking Shape

The New Orleans Saints are 0-4 and counting down to the NFL draft less than a month away with the No. 8 pick in their pocket. Coach Kellen Moore has been busy reshaping the roster in free agency, and his philosophy on how to build this offense is becoming crystal clear: load up at running back.

The Saints brought in running back Travis Etienne Jr. this offseason, and Moore is all in on the idea of a loaded running back room. It's a statement about how he wants to attack defenses moving forward, especially as the team fills other roster holes heading into the April 23-25 draft.

Free Agency Moves Point to Moore's Vision

New Orleans didn't just add Etienne in free agency. They also signed guard David Edwards, linebacker Kaden Elliss, and tight end Noah Fant. That's a lot of offensive help, and it tells you something about where Moore's head is at for this team. The running back investment suggests Moore believes in a committee approach that can keep defenses off balance and give the offense multiple looks.

The Saints still have work to do though. Wide receiver and pass rusher remain positions of need heading into the draft, so Moore and his staff will be looking to address those gaps when the April event rolls around.

The Quarterback Situation and What's Next

On the quarterback side, Moore recently added veteran Zach Wilson to compete with Spencer Rattler for the backup job behind Tyler Shough. Moore explained the thinking: "We had two quarterbacks, we were going to need to sign some more and our job is to make those environments as competitive as possible. We feel good about watching Zach ... have followed him, evaluated him a number of times now, and so I feel like the opportunity was right." The Saints feel good about both Rattler and Shough, but Moore made it clear months ago that the team intended to sign at least one or two more quarterbacks to keep everyone sharp during the offseason.

With the draft approaching fast, the Saints are positioning themselves to compete when they face the Giants (1-3) on Sunday. A loaded running back room and improved depth at key positions could turn this 0-4 start around quick.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.