On Tuesday, the New Orleans Saints released running back Latavius Murray. The timing of this move wasn’t ideal for Murray, but it became very evident that his role on the team was diminishing.
Last season, Murray had 656 rushing yards, 176 receiving yards and five total touchdowns. While those are very good numbers for a second-string running back, the reality is Murray didn’t show much burst during the preseason.
It also didn’t help that Tony Jones Jr. was climbing up the depth chart in New Orleans. The Notre Dame product had a breakout performance in the preseason opener, rushing for 82 yards and a touchdown.
Saints head coach Sean Payton said Jones was so impressive over the past few months that he played a role in the team’s decision to cut Murray.
“It’s a credit to Tony, he kind of battled and earned that No. 2 spot,” Payton said when asked about the release of Murray. “Obviously I’ve got strong feelings towards Latavius, he’s been real important to us and someone who has really given us a lot of good snaps.”
Sean Payton on the release of Murray: “It’s a credit to Tony, he kind of battled and earned that No. 2 spot. Obviously I’ve got strong feelings towards Latavius, he’s been real important to us and someone who has really given us a lot of good snaps”
— Katherine Terrell (@Kat_Terrell) September 8, 2021
Saints general manager Mickey Loomis also commented on the team’s decision to release Murray. He had nothing but praise for the veteran tailback.
“Latavius is such a great teammate, and contributed to a lot of wins for us over the last couple years,” Loomis said. “I can’t say enough good things about Latavius. Obviously you wish him well, and look, you never know what the future holds.”
Murray’s best days are most likely behind him, but there should be a handful of teams interested in his services.
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