Who Should I Start? Alvin Kamara or Jonathon Brooks

Tuesday, October 22, 7:42 PM

The New Orleans Saints and running back Alvin Kamara agreed to a two-year, $24.5 million contract extension on Tuesday that puts him under contract through the 2026 season, according to sources. The deal was confirmed by Kamara's agent, Brad Cicala, and puts the 2017 third-round selection in a spot to retire with the organization. The five-time Pro Bowler had a career-low 694 rushing yards for the Saints in 2023, but he bounced back 362 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns on 80 carries in the first four games of 2024 before struggling the last three games. Kamara could continue to struggle on the ground as long as quarterback Derek Carr (oblique) remains out, but predictions of his demise after last season so far have proven unfounded. The 29-year-old trails only Derrick Henry in overall half-PPR fantasy points heading into Week 8.

Friday, October 18, 1:10 PM

Carolina Panthers rookie running back Jonathon Brooks (knee) was limited in Friday's practice but has been ruled out and won't make his NFL debut this weekend versus the Washington Commanders. Brooks made his return to practice for the first time this year on Wednesday while recovering from a torn ACL that he suffered last November while playing in college at Texas, so the 21-year-old wasn't realistically expected to play in Week 7. However, the 46th overall pick in this year's draft (the first RB off the board), could become a big part of Carolina's backfield alongside Chuba Hubbard later this year once he gets up to speed. Brooks will need to make more progress in practice next week to have a shot to make his debut for the Panthers in Week 8 against the Denver Broncos. He's worth stashing in all fantasy leagues.