Mark Ingram had previously stated an intent to continue his playing career in 2023, but his short-term future appears to be headed in a different direction. The veteran running back’s broadcasting career could begin in the fall.
Ingram is expected to retire and join FOX Sports’ “Big Noon Kickoff” show, reports Andrew Marchand of the New York Post. There is set to be an opening on the college pregame program with fellow former Saints running back Reggie Bush‘s contract expiring. Making the move to broadcasting would mark a significant about-face on Ingram’s part given his recent remarks on his playing future.
The 33-year-old said in April that he felt he could still be a valuable member of a RB committee this season. Ingram enjoyed a highly productive campaign in 2019, his first season with the Ravens. He eclipsed 1,000 rushing yards and scored 15 total touchdowns that year, earning a third Pro Bowl nod. His opportunities and production since then, however, have taken a turn for the worse.
The former first-rounder ultimately fell out of the lineup in Baltimore in 2020, and began the following season in Houston. He was traded to the Saints to begin a second stint in New Orleans in October 2021, and he remained there last season.
Ingram saw 130 total carries in his new Saints tenure behind Alvin Kamara, but the team looked elsewhere this offseason in their bid to add different backup options. Veteran Jamaal Williams was signed to a three-year deal, while Kendre Miller was added in the third round of the draft, leaving Ingram in search of another new home.
Nothing has materialized with respect to interest from prospective teams — something which comes as little surprise given how modest the RB market has been this year and the group of experienced backs still available.
Rather than attempting to take the field for a 13th NFL season, Ingram could soon formally start the second phase of his football career.
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