Report: Kamara absent from camp for contract-related reasons

New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara has been absent from training camp without permission for the past three days, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Kamara's lack of attendance is believed to be related to his contract, according to Schefter. The fourth-year rusher is entering the final year of his rookie deal.

Kamara has been a vital part of the Saints' offense since entering the league as a third-round pick in 2017. While he's never rushed for 1,000 yards in a season, Kamara has been a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses thanks to his abilities in the passing game. He's also returned kicks and punts at times over the last three seasons.

Alvin Kamara from 2017-19

As of Aug. 20, the Saints had been discussing an extension with Kamara's representatives, according to Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football.

Christian McCaffrey of the Carolina Panthers reset the running back market this offseason by inking a four-year extension for just over $16 million per season.