Why is Alvin Kamara not playing vs. Panthers? Reason for Saints RB’s absence clarified

New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara is not eligible to face the Carolina Panthers on Monday due to suspension.

The running back did not feature in the Saints' season opener against the Tennessee Titans due to a suspension he was issued by the NFL before the start of the season, stemming from an incident in Las Vegas in February 2022.

Alvin Kamara suspension details

Alvin Kamara was arrested on Feb. 6 and charged with battery resulting in substantial bodily harm.

The victim, Darnell Greene, told the police that the incident involving the Saints running back happened while he was waiting for an elevator. He was stopped from entering and was attacked by multiple people in Kamara's crew, who were in LA for the Pro Bowl.

Kamara avoided a trial and jail time after reaching a plea agreement. There was hope in the New Orleans Saints camp that Kamara would avoid a suspension after a 'positive' meeting with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. However, that was not the case and Kamara was given a three-game ban.

Kamara spoke about the incident prior to Goodell's decision becoming public:

"I never want to be involved in something where someone gets hurt or severely injured. Poor judgment on my end and definitely a bad decision."

When will Alvin Kamara return?

He's eligible to return to the New Orleans Saints active roster after Week 3, meaning that he will also be unavailable for the contest against the Green Bay Packers on Sept. 24.

The earliest that Alvin Kamara will be eligible to play in the 2023 season is against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Oct. 1. Until then, it's up to Jamaal Williams to lead the Saints' backfield.

Williams had 17 touchdowns for the Detroit Lions in 2022.