Apparently, The Vikings Picked Up their Own Version of Alvin Kamara

May 14, 2026 · Yahoo Sports

Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports

Putting the question to rookie runner Demond Claiborne involves him connecting himself New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara.

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The 6th-Round selection for the Vikings spoke to the media after getting scooped up. When asked for a comparison, Claiborne didn’t hesitate. “Alvin Kamara,” Claiborne explained, “was definitely a guy where I was like, the way he runs the ball, his contact balance, not being the biggest back but being able to slip out of tackles, get those extra few yards.”

The Vikings, Demond Claiborne, & Alvin Kamara

No doubt, there’s a ton to like in Claiborne’s answer. No doubt, it’s an ambitious comparison. Isn’t that what’s desired, though? Why draft someone unless they have huge ambition?

The NFL is seldom a place where the tepid succeed. Somehow arriving at the paradox of humble audacity is far preferable.

After noting the size and balance comparisons, Claiborne clarifies that part of the appeal of Kamara rests in “being able to take the ball for a long touchdown run.” So, explosive gains are part of the goal: “I look forward to getting into the NFL and having my opportunity.”

Oct 4, 2025; Blacksburg, Virginia, USA; Wake Forest Demon Deacons running back Demond Claiborne (1) runs the ball during the first quarter against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bishop-Imagn Images

Shortly thereafter, Claiborne chatted about Aaron Jones, as well. The newcomer wants to “learn from I think he’s one of the guys that’s doing it at an elite level.” There was then a mention of an “underdog mentality” due to being smaller.

Mirroring either of Alvin Kamara or Aaron Jones — or somehow blending elements from each runner’s game — would be a fantastic outcome for the Vikings.

An area of overlap for Kamara and Jones rests in their excellence when catching the ball. Last year, Claiborne wasn’t particularly explosive, turning 28 catches into just 140 yards. The 5.0 yards-per-catch average is modest, a reality made worse by not scoring through the air.

Now, there is some wisdom within the recognition that sometimes a player has modest stats since he’s being tasked with running shorter routes, functioning as a last-second pressure-release valve rather than allowed to work down the field for more explosive gains.

Claiborne’s 2024 season involved far 23 catches for 254 yards and 2 touchdowns. That’s a beefy 11.0 yards-per-catch average, pointing toward upside in this facet of ball.

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What’s also of some upside is that his running statistics have been consistently impressive. His 2024 involved 228 carries for 1,049 yards and 11 touchdowns (4.6 YPC average). He then had 179 carries for 907 yards and 10 touchdowns (5.1 YPC average). Bringing that explosive efficiency up to the pro level would be an excellent outcome for Claiborne and the Vikings alike.

Sep 22, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones (33) catches a pass from quarterback Sam Darnold (14) against the Houston Texans in the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images.

Finally, remember that the Vikings may have scooped up a weapon for special teams, too.

In 2023, Demond Claiborne had 10 kickoff returns for 284 yards and 1 touchdown. He then had 11 kickoff returns for 277 yards for 1 touchdown in 2024. Myles Price has proven to be a great option as a punt returner but a touch less impressive handling kickoffs. Does Claiborne end up shouldering the burden of kickoff returns while functioning as the RB3 in 2026?

Minnesota’s depth chart rolling into 2026 is very likely going to involve Aaron Jones operating as the 1A while Jordan Mason is the 1B. Jones is the superior player when it comes to being multiple; Mason is the superior player when it comes to punching the defense in the mouth. Each one has an important job.

Next up is Demond Claiborne, the young fella who is looking to replicate Alvin Kamara as he establishes his NFL career in Minnesota. He is 22 and posted a wicked fast 4.37 forty.

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