Multiple NFL Teams Release Running Backs Amid Roster Adjustments

Several NFL teams have recently made moves to adjust their running back rosters. The New Orleans Saints released running back Xazavian Valladay to make room in a crowded backfield that includes Alvin Kamara and Cam Akers, signaling they do not see Valladay as part of their future plans. The Pittsburgh Steelers also cut veteran running back Jonathan Ward after a season that saw him move between the practice squad and active roster. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Falcons waived former Alabama running back Jase McClellan after signing Jashaun Corbin, the 2025 United Football League's leading rusher, to bolster their running back depth. McClellan, a sixth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, appeared in only two games during his rookie season with the Falcons and was placed on injured reserve due to a knee injury. These changes reflect teams' efforts to optimize their backfields with players they believe will contribute more effectively in the upcoming seasons.