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The Saints have released runningback Terrance West, per multiple reports coming out this morning. New Orleans signed the veteran running back in June as they prepared for this season’s training camp and preseason battle to find the four game replacement for Mark Ingram.
West, who turned 27 in January, played in only five games with the Ravens in 2017 following a 2016 season that saw him see the field in every game. Since being drafted in the third round by the Cleveland Browns West has struggled to find consistent success managing only one season with 1,000 or more total yards on offense. (2016 with the Ravens)
Saints released RB Terrance West, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 21, 2018
With the release of West it would appear as if Jonathan Williams is the front runner for Ingram’s snaps. Williams had 8 carries for 37 yards (4.6 YPC) in the Saints loss to the Cardinals in week two of the preseason while West saw his opportunities drop with only 2 carries coming late in the game.
Trey Edmunds has been splitting time operating as a fullback while rookie runningback out of Louisiana Tech Boston Scott has quietly had a strong camp. Scott is a player to keep an eye on in the final two games of the preseason as the release of West will likely open up more snaps assuming the Saints don’t sign another back to the roster.
With injuries to backs to various teams here in the preseason West could find a new hope sooner rather than later. The Saints decision to release him now gives him the opportunity to find a new club and hopefully adjust to their playbook. Teams like the Redskins, Seahawks, Colts and others are all possible future landing spots.
We will update this article if and when more information comes available.