BREAKING NEWS: Saints Add Depth at Running Back, Sign Former Colts Pick Evan Hull to Practice Squad
The New Orleans Saints continue to reshape their backfield heading into the second half of the 2025 season, signing running back Evan Hull to the practice squad following a round of free agent tryouts earlier this week.
Hull joins a rotation that already includes Alvin Kamara, rookie Devin Neal, and fellow practice-squad back Audric Estimรฉ, giving New Orleans some much-needed insurance and flexibility at the position.
Hull, 25, was a fifth-round selection by the Indianapolis Colts in the 2023 NFL Draft after a standout career at Northwestern. Known for his blend of athleticism and versatility, Hull entered the league as a promising dual-threat back capable of contributing both as a rusher and receiver out of the backfield.
At the NFL Scouting Combine, he measured 5-foot-10 and 209 pounds, ran a 4.47-second 40-yard dash, and impressed with his smooth agility drills โ traits that drew attention from scouts across the league.
However, his professional journey has been anything but straightforward. Hullโs rookie season in Indianapolis was derailed by injury, keeping him sidelined for much of the year. Upon his return, he found limited opportunities in a crowded backfield headlined by All-Pro Jonathan Taylor.
Despite flashes of potential, Hull couldnโt secure a consistent role and spent the 2024 season on the Coltsโ practice squad before parting ways earlier this year.
He later took part in workouts with the Pittsburgh Steelers over the summer, showcasing his speed and hands in hopes of landing another opportunity. While he didnโt catch on in Pittsburgh, his performance evidently left enough of an impression for New Orleans to take a closer look.
For the Saints, Hullโs signing adds valuable depth to a position thatโs seen its share of rotation and adjustment this season. Alvin Kamara remains the focal point of the offense, but with the veteran managing a heavy workload, the team has leaned more on its young backs.
Devin Neal, the rookie out of Kansas, has shown promise in limited touches, while Audric Estimรฉ, a bruising runner from Notre Dame, continues to develop on the practice squad.
Hullโs skill set could fit neatly within that mix. A polished pass-catcher and efficient zone runner, he brings the kind of versatility head coach Dennis Allen and offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak value in their system. The Saints have frequently rotated their backs situationally, and Hullโs ability to contribute on special teams may further strengthen his case for a future call-up.
With the season entering its critical stretch, New Orleans appears committed to keeping its backfield well-stocked. If Hull can stay healthy and rediscover the burst that made him a mid-round draft gem, the Saints might have found a useful piece for both the present and beyond.