ANNOUNCEMENT: Alvin Kamara Shocks NFL World, Rejects Historic $575 Million Deal To Join The Washington Commanders — Says “MY LOYALTY LIES WITH THE SAINTS”
June 13, 2025 | New Orleans, LA – By NFL Daily Wire Staff
In a stunning turn of events that is already being hailed as one of the most unexpected moments in recent NFL history, New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara has turned down a record-breaking $575 million contract offer from the Washington Commanders, choosing instead to remain with the franchise that drafted him in 2017.
Kamara, a five-time Pro Bowler and one of the league’s most dynamic offensive weapons, made the announcement on social media Friday morning, sending shockwaves across the football world.
“I’ve seen the reports. Yes, it was real,” Kamara wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post. “But my loyalty lies with the Saints. I’m not chasing a number. I’m chasing legacy — and I want that legacy to stay rooted in New Orleans.”
A Deal That Would’ve Rewritten the Record Books
According to multiple sources close to the negotiation, the Commanders offered Kamara a five-year, $575 million contract — the largest ever offered to a running back, and one of the most lucrative contracts in NFL history across all positions. The deal reportedly included over $400 million in guaranteed money and extensive marketing incentives tied to Kamara’s brand and off-field presence.
The Commanders, now under new ownership and aggressively rebuilding their roster, viewed Kamara as a cornerstone piece both on and off the field. The organization was said to be “stunned and disappointed” by the rejection.
“We put forth a generational offer for a generational player,” said a Commanders executive who asked not to be named. “But at the end of the day, it’s clear Alvin’s heart is in New Orleans. We respect his decision.”
Loyalty Over Legacy
Kamara, 29, has spent his entire career with the Saints and has become synonymous with the franchise’s identity during the post-Drew Brees era. Known for his elusive running style, elite receiving skills, and calm demeanor, Kamara has amassed over 9,000 yards from scrimmage and 80 total touchdowns since entering the league.
Despite several rebuilding seasons and recent struggles by the Saints, Kamara’s commitment to the team and the city of New Orleans has remained unshaken.
“I came here as a rookie. I became a man in this city,” Kamara said in a video posted later Friday. “They took a chance on me when not everyone believed, and I’ll never forget that. I play for more than just wins. I play for this community, this culture, and this team.”
Saints Respond With Passion and Pride
The Saints organization wasted no time responding to Kamara’s decision. Head coach Dennis Allen praised Kamara’s integrity and called him “the heart and soul of this team.”
“Money comes and goes in this league. Loyalty? That’s rare,” Allen said. “What Alvin Kamara just did speaks louder than any stat line. He’s more than a player — he’s a leader, a symbol of what we stand for.”
Team owner Gayle Benson also released a statement expressing deep gratitude and pride in Kamara’s commitment, saying, “Alvin embodies the spirit of New Orleans. His decision today will be remembered not just in Saints history, but in NFL history.”
A Message to the League
Kamara’s decision is being widely praised by former players and analysts across the NFL, many of whom see his move as a powerful counter-narrative in an era often defined by big-money moves and brand-focused decisions.
Former Saints quarterback Drew Brees chimed in via social media: “What Alvin just did takes courage. This league needs more of that. Loyalty, heart, and staying true to what matters.”
What’s Next?
While the Commanders will now look elsewhere in their pursuit of elite offensive talent, the Saints are expected to work with Kamara on a new contract extension — though sources say money was never the driving factor.
In an age of massive contracts and relentless free-agency turnover, Kamara’s bold decision stands out as a reminder that, sometimes, legacy really does mean more than a dollar figure.
