In the midst of the New Orleans Saints' mandatory minicamp, running back Alvin Kamara was notably absent from the team's final practice on Thursday. According to Kamara's agent, Brad Cicala, his absence is related to a contract dispute.

Although Kamara attended the facility for the Saints' morning walk-through, he left just before the team's practice session, which was open to the media. When questioned about Kamara's absence, Saints coach Dennis Allen expressed uncertainty, stating that he hadn't had a chance to speak with the running back regarding the matter.

Kamara currently has two years remaining on his five-year, $77 million contract that he signed in September 2020. Notably, Kamara missed five practices leading up to August 2020, but he subsequently signed a new deal. However, he claimed that he did not hold out for a new contract.

As the Saints recently restructured quarterback Taysom Hill's deal earlier this week, Kamara's contract remains untouched. His 2024 cap number of $18.55 million is the highest on the team, and he no longer has any guaranteed money in his deal for the year 2025.

This year, Kamara broke his routine of attending organized team activities (OTAs), which he had consistently done in previous offseasons. Nonetheless, he did participate in the first two practices of mandatory minicamp. In an interview on Tuesday, Kamara emphasized that he has been keeping up with the team's activities and maintaining communication with his teammates and coaches. He dismissed suggestions of a rift, highlighting that he has been doing what he has always done.

Coach Allen declined to confirm whether Kamara's absence was directly related to his contract or if it would be considered an unexcused absence. If deemed unexcused, Kamara could face fines of up to $16,953. Allen expressed his expectation that Kamara will be present for training camp, but reiterated that he has not had a chance to discuss the matter directly with the running back.

As of now, there is uncertainty surrounding Kamara's absence and the specific reasons behind it. Saints fans and the organization will be eagerly awaiting further updates as training camp approaches.