Mark Ingram II, a name synonymous with New Orleans Saints football, solidified his legacy as the franchise’s all-time leading rusher during his 12-year NFL career. Ingram, a three-time Pro Bowler, including two selections during his initial eight-season stint with the Saints (2011-2018), witnessed four playoff appearances with the team. As the Saints navigate a period of transition, seeking a new head coach after missing the playoffs in recent years, Ingram offers his perspective on the ideal candidate. He endorses Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady, highlighting Brady’s prior experience as an offensive assistant with the Saints during Ingram’s tenure (2017-2018), his familiarity with the city of New Orleans, and his impressive offensive pedigree. Ingram emphasizes Brady’s success in elevating the Bills’ offense, despite the departure of key players, as a testament to his coaching prowess. While acknowledging his lack of insider information, Ingram expresses confidence in the organization’s ability to select the right fit for the team and the city.
Beyond the coaching search, Ingram also weighs in on the Saints’ upcoming draft strategy. With the ninth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Ingram suggests a bold move: selecting a running back to complement Alvin Kamara. Drawing parallels to the Detroit Lions’ successful running back tandem of David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs, Ingram proposes Heisman Trophy runner-up Ashton Jeanty as a potential target. He envisions a dynamic duo of Jeanty and Kamara, adding another dimension to the Saints’ offense. Ingram acknowledges the perceived high draft position for a running back but argues that the position’s value is resurgent, citing the impact of players like Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry. He emphasizes the crucial role of running backs in a team’s success and believes Jeanty’s exceptional talent warrants consideration at No. 9.
Ingram’s insights extend beyond his former team, as he ventures into Super Bowl LIX predictions. He foresees a Kansas City Chiefs victory, anticipating a three-peat performance by the reigning champions. Citing Patrick Mahomes’ ability to lead the team despite offensive inconsistencies and recent improvements, Ingram expresses confidence in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl prospects. He believes their current momentum and Mahomes’ leadership make them the favorites to win the championship.
Off the field, Ingram engages in initiatives that reflect his commitment to the community. He partners with Intuit QuickBooks for their “Your Way to Money” campaign, which focuses on supporting small businesses. Ingram champions Kern Studios, a New Orleans-based family-owned business specializing in custom-fabricated props and parade floats, including creations for Mardi Gras and the Super Bowl parade. He lauds the importance of small businesses as the “heartbeat of the community” and expresses his enthusiasm for collaborating with QuickBooks to promote their growth and financial stability. Ingram’s commercial with Intuit QuickBooks debuted during the NFC Championship game, further highlighting his dedication to supporting local businesses.
Ingram’s endorsements of Joe Brady for head coach and Ashton Jeanty in the draft reflect his nuanced understanding of the Saints’ needs and his belief in their potential. He identifies Brady’s familiarity with the organization and his offensive prowess as key assets, while envisioning Jeanty as the perfect complement to Kamara in the backfield. His Super Bowl prediction showcases his football acumen, and his partnership with Intuit QuickBooks demonstrates his commitment to giving back to the community that has embraced him throughout his career. Ingram’s perspectives offer valuable insights into the current state of the NFL and the importance of supporting small businesses within the broader economic landscape.
Ingram’s enduring connection to New Orleans and his continued engagement with the football community position him as a respected voice within the sport. His insights, from coaching candidates to draft strategies and Super Bowl predictions, carry weight due to his experience and deep-rooted understanding of the game. Moreover, his advocacy for small businesses underscores his commitment to the city of New Orleans and its vibrant cultural fabric. Ingram’s multifaceted contributions, both on and off the field, solidify his legacy as a prominent figure in the NFL and a dedicated advocate for the communities he represents. His continued involvement in the sport and his commitment to supporting local businesses ensure that his impact extends far beyond his playing days. Ingram’s thoughtful perspectives and community engagement exemplify his enduring influence and commitment to making a positive impact.
