SWAP DEAL: Dallas Cowboys and New Orleans Saints Discuss High-Profile Trade Involving Alvin Kamara and Ezekiel Elliott

In what could be one of the most unexpected and intriguing trades of the offseason, sources have confirmed that the Dallas Cowboys and the New Orleans Saints are engaged in talks that could see running backs Alvin Kamara and Ezekiel Elliott swapping teams. This potential swap deal is still in its early stages, but it has the potential to significantly alter the landscape of both teams as they prepare for the 2025 NFL season.

The proposed trade would send Kamara, the versatile star running back of the Saints, to the Cowboys, while Elliott, a former star for Dallas, would make his return to New Orleans. This move, if finalized, would shake up the backfield for both teams and ignite fresh conversations about the future of these two highly-talented players.

Alvin Kamara to Dallas: A New Chapter for the Playmaker

Alvin Kamara, one of the most dynamic running backs in the NFL, has been a cornerstone of the New Orleans Saints’ offense since being drafted in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Known for his exceptional agility, pass-catching ability, and knack for scoring touchdowns, Kamara has consistently ranked among the league’s elite running backs.

As of late, Kamara’s time with the Saints has been clouded by some off-the-field issues, including a suspension handed down by the NFL for his involvement in an altercation during the 2022 Pro Bowl. Despite this, Kamara’s on-field production has never been in question. He is widely regarded as one of the best all-purpose backs in the NFL, capable of both running between the tackles and making plays in the passing game.

In Dallas, Kamara would bring a new dimension to the Cowboys’ offense, which has been heavily reliant on quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. Kamara’s versatility would be a welcome addition to an offense that has occasionally struggled to establish a reliable running game. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield would be particularly valuable for Prescott, as Kamara could serve as both a safety valve and a game-changing weapon in the open field.

Kamara’s addition would also provide an immediate upgrade to the Cowboys’ ground game, which has been inconsistent since the departure of Elliott as the team’s primary ball-carrier. Kamara’s vision, burst, and ability to break tackles would complement the Cowboys’ already potent offense, and could allow head coach Mike McCarthy to diversify his play-calling and take advantage of Kamara’s unique skill set.

Ezekiel Elliott’s Return to New Orleans: A Fresh Start

For Ezekiel Elliott, a trade to the Saints would mark a significant return to the team that almost acquired him during his early years in the NFL. New Orleans had been heavily interested in Elliott in the past, but he ultimately signed with the Cowboys and became the face of their rushing attack for several seasons. However, after a somewhat underwhelming 2024 campaign in which Elliott saw his role diminished in Dallas, a change of scenery could be just what the running back needs to revive his career.

Once regarded as one of the NFL’s premier ball-carriers, Elliott’s production has tapered off in recent years. Injuries, a dip in production, and the emergence of younger talent have all contributed to the decline of his status as the Cowboys’ feature back. In 2024, Elliott struggled to maintain consistent yardage and was eventually relegated to a secondary role behind Tony Pollard.

A trade to the Saints would provide Elliott with an opportunity to reestablish himself as a lead back. New Orleans has a long history of running back success, with Kamara’s dual-threat ability paving the way for a potent rushing attack. However, the Saints have lacked a true workhorse back since the departure of Mark Ingram, and Elliott could fill that void with his bruising style of running.

Elliott’s physicality and ability to grind out tough yards between the tackles would be a welcome addition to the Saints’ offense, which has relied heavily on Kamara for its offensive production in recent seasons. The Saints could pair Elliott with a promising young quarterback, and his presence in the backfield would offer balance to their offensive attack.

Elliott’s veteran leadership could also prove invaluable in New Orleans’ locker room. Having been the face of the Cowboys’ offense for several years, Elliott has experience handling high expectations and could bring a strong, consistent presence to the Saints’ backfield.

Why This Trade Makes Sense for Both Teams

At first glance, this trade may appear to be a bit of a head-scratcher, but upon further analysis, both teams stand to benefit from the swap. For Dallas, Kamara’s explosive playmaking ability makes him an ideal fit to complement their offensive weapons. Head coach Mike McCarthy’s offense would have a dynamic new toy to work with, and Kamara could provide the spark needed to take the Cowboys’ offense to the next level.

For New Orleans, this trade would represent a fresh start for Elliott, who has the potential to excel in a new environment. While Kamara’s versatility and talent are undeniable, the Saints could use a power back like Elliott to help balance their offense, especially in short-yardage situations or in goal-line scenarios. Elliott’s toughness and downhill running style would complement the Saints’ approach, giving them a physical presence that they’ve lacked at times in recent seasons.

Additionally, both teams are in need of a change in the running back position, with each squad looking to move forward from past disappointments. For Dallas, the departure of Elliott in 2024 left a void in the backfield, while Kamara’s off-the-field issues with the Saints could signal that it’s time for a new direction. This trade offers both teams the opportunity to recalibrate their rosters while still acquiring a back who can make an immediate impact.

Salary Cap Implications and Potential Challenges

One of the biggest challenges in executing this trade will be the salary cap implications. Both Kamara and Elliott are top-tier running backs with hefty contracts, and their high salaries could make it difficult for both teams to maneuver financially. The Cowboys are currently in a position where they have limited cap space, and acquiring Kamara would require restructuring contracts or shedding salary elsewhere.

Similarly, New Orleans would need to find a way to fit Elliott’s contract under their cap. The Saints have been known for their creative cap management, but a move of this magnitude would still require careful planning.

Another factor that could complicate this deal is the uncertainty surrounding Kamara’s future. The running back was recently suspended by the NFL for his involvement in an off-the-field altercation, and while he is expected to return in time for the 2025 season, the length of any potential suspension could impact the Saints’ willingness to trade him.

However, assuming both players are available for the upcoming season, the trade would be a significant win for both teams in terms of upgrading their respective backfields.

What This Means for the Cowboys and Saints’ Future

This trade could have long-lasting effects on both teams as they move into the 2025 season and beyond. For the Cowboys, Kamara’s arrival would provide a dynamic playmaker who could take their offense to new heights. With Dak Prescott at quarterback and CeeDee Lamb leading the receiving corps, adding Kamara would make the Cowboys one of the most potent offensive teams in the NFC.

For the Saints, a new chapter for Elliott could bring a renewed sense of stability to their offense. While Kamara’s departure would be difficult, Elliott’s power running and experience could be a solid foundation for the team as they rebuild their offensive identity.

While this trade is far from finalized, the possibility of a Kamara-Elliott swap is a tantalizing storyline to watch in the lead-up to the 2025 season. With both players capable of providing significant contributions to their new teams, this deal could turn out to be a win for both the Cowboys and the Saints. Only time will tell whether this high-profile swap will come to fruition.