Scouting Future Saints: Washington Huskies running back Jonah Coleman

TL;DR

The New Orleans Saints may target Washington Huskies running back Jonah Coleman in the mid-rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft. This comes after signing Travis Etienne Jr., suggesting a potential 1-2 backfield punch with Alvin Kamara.

Key points

Saints signed running back Travis Etienne Jr.
Rumors of a split with Alvin Kamara are likely unfounded.
Jonah Coleman could be a mid-round draft target for the Saints.
Kamara is entering his 10th season and turns 31 in July.
Kendre Miller's injury history raises concerns for the Saints' backfield.

New Orleans SaintsWashington HuskiesJonah ColemanAlvin Kamara

The New Orleans Saints created some waves when they signed running back Travis Etienne Jr. in free agency. While this fueled rumors of a split with longtime back Alvin Kamara, it's more likely that these two will be a 1-2 backfield punch for the Saints in 2026. The addition of Etienne probably precludes New Orleans from taking a back early on in the 2026 NFL Draft. However, don't be shocked if the Saints eye up a talent like Washington Huskies back Jonah Coleman with a mid-round selection.

Kamara turns 31 in July and is heading into his 10th season with a big contract. Fourth-year back Kendre Miller is extremely injury-prone and therefore can't be depended on, and 2025 sixth round choice Devin Neal is somewhat unproven. With those backfield issues, it would not be at all surprising if the Saints eyed up a back such as Coleman in the middle rounds to be a future complement to Etienne.

Jonah Coleman bio

Position: Running back
College: Washington Huskies
Height: 5-feet, 8 inches
Weight: 220 pounds

A graduate of Lincoln High School in California, where former Saints wideout Brandin Cooks was an alumni, Coleman started his collegiate career with the Arizona Wildcats of the Pac-12. He'd have 372 rushing yards and 4 scores as a freshman in 2022. The following year, he'd lead Arizona with 871 yards and 5 touchdowns on the ground. He'd follow coach Jedd Fisch to the Washington Huskies after that season.

In 2024 under Fisch at Washington, Coleman would lead the squad with 1,053 rushing yards and 10 scores while earning 3rd Team All-Big Ten honors. His statistical production dipped a bit in 2025, but Coleman still led the team with 758 rushing yards and scored 17 total touchdowns, a number that led the Big Ten and was fifth across the NCAA.

Strengths

Compact build with powerful frame
Consistently productive between tackles

Q&A

What is Jonah Coleman's height and weight?

Jonah Coleman is 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighs 220 pounds.

Why might the Saints draft Jonah Coleman?

The Saints may draft Coleman to complement Travis Etienne and address concerns with their current backfield depth.

What is the significance of the Saints signing Travis Etienne Jr.?

Signing Travis Etienne Jr. suggests the Saints are looking to strengthen their running game, potentially impacting their draft strategy for running backs.

How does Alvin Kamara's age affect the Saints' running back strategy?

Alvin Kamara, turning 31 and entering his 10th season, raises concerns about his long-term viability, prompting the Saints to consider future options like Coleman.