"Spencer's play calls are bit sharper": Alvin Kamara opens up about "challenges" after rookie Tyler Shough gets named Saints' starter for the season

New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara shared his perspective on the team’s quarterback shuffle as rookie Tyler Shough prepares to make his first NFL start against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday.

Shough, a second-round pick in the 2025 draft, will take over under center when New Orleans visits the Rams following Rattler’s benching.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Kamara explained the differences between the quarterbacks he’s played alongside.

"You know, you might get a Drew Brees that might get in the huddle and be like 'gun bunch, right, tight, 22 paint,' and James will get in there and be like, gun? bunch?" Kamara said.

"With Tyler, I think he's a little bit more mellow than Spencer, where Spencer's play calls are a little bit sharper and a little bit more intense. Tyler's kind of like, 'Okay, look,' it's calmer. It'll be good. I'm excited for him. I'm excited for, obviously, it's a challenge."

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#Saints RB Alvin Kamara on adjusting to a new QB calling plays — and working through the little things with rookie Tyler Shough, in true AK fashion.

The veteran explained that each quarterback’s cadence affects how he listens for cues in play calls. Kamara said the adaptability becomes second nature after playing with different quarterbacks.

Alvin Kamara embracing reduced role amid Saints’ offensive reset

NFL: Tampa Bay Buccaneers at New Orleans Saints - Source: Imagn

Alvin Kamara’s workload has dipped this season amid New Orleans’ offensive struggles. He’s averaging 12.5 carries per game, his lowest mark since 2020, while posting a career-low 3.6 yards per attempt. He has 363 rushing yards and one touchdown on 100 carries, along with 27 receptions for 147 yards.

The drop in production hasn’t bothered him.

"I'm Employee 41," Kamara said, according to Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football.

"I just do what they need me to do."

With rookie Keandre Miller sidelined for the year and Devin Neal still finding his footing, Kamara remains the team’s most reliable option in the backfield.

As Shough assumes command of the offense and the Saints approach their bye week, Kamara’s experience and composure could be the difference between another lost season and a late turnaround.