Saints Release RB Kendre Miller, Offering Broncos Depth Opportunity

The New Orleans Saints have released running back Kendre Miller, potentially offering the Denver Broncos a low-risk opportunity to address their thinning backfield as the NFL trade deadline looms.

The decision to cut a 2023 third-round pick mid-season shows the Saints lack confidence, but Miller’s physical profile—standing 6-feet tall and weighing 220 pounds—interests teams needing depth.

The Broncos currently find themselves in a precarious position at the running back spot. After a 2025 season when he was among the top-5 backs in pretty much every major category, JK Dobbins has struggled to generate yardage after contact or contribute effectively in the passing game, leading to a reduction in his snaps over the last two outings.

The team has turned to Jonah Coleman, who recently returned from a four-week stint on injured reserve with an ankle injury, to take on a larger share of the workload.

The depth chart has been further thinned by injuries throughout the 2026 season. RJ Harvey is currently sidelined with a knee injury sustained during practice, with an earliest possible return date of December 6, though that timeline remains uncertain. Tyler Badie has also spent time on injured reserve this year, leaving the Broncos with little margin for error.

The Saints have: Activated: OT Kelvin Banks Jr. WR Jordyn Tyson Elevated: K Charlie Smyth RB Zamir White Waived: RB Kendre Miller TE Treyton Welchhttps://t.co/vglMmKTuUL

— Post by @Saints on X

Miller’s transition to the professional level has been marked by inconsistency and health setbacks. His career-long carry sits at 18 yards, and his highest average per carry over the course of a season is 4.1 yards. During the 2026 season, while Travis Etienne dealt with an injury, Miller recorded 66 touches for 196 yards from scrimmage, paired with two touchdowns and two fumbles.

A potential reunion could influence Denver’s interest. This existing familiarity could provide the Broncos with unique insight into whether Miller’s physical talent can be salvaged in a new system.

Saints Release RB Kendre Miller, Offering Broncos Depth Opportunity

Since Miller is subject to waivers, the Broncos would need to rely on their position in the order to secure him, assuming no higher-ranked team claims him first. Alternatively, the Saints may be willing to negotiate a last-second trade before the deadline to avoid losing the player for nothing.

The situation mirrors the development cycles often seen with younger players who struggle to gain traction in their initial environments. Much like the experience Denver fans had with tight end Greg Dulcich, the frustration of waiting for a player to stay healthy and reach his potential is a common theme in roster management.

At 24 years old, Miller’s career narrative remains incomplete, providing the Broncos with a decision on whether to gamble on his upside or continue searching for more established insurance for their backfield.