Who Should I Start? Alvin Kamara or Tony Pollard

Sunday, February 1, 6:46 AM

New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara is trending downward ahead of the 2026 NFL season. While Kamara is under contract for one more year with the Saints, he's losing his grasp on the New Orleans backfield due to his age, injury issues, and the emergence of younger teammates. Kamara was the overall RB46 in full-PPR leagues during the 2025 season, which was the first time he ever finished lower than RB16. While part of his slip can be attributed to Kamara missing six games, he also showcased reduced volume and effectiveness. He averaged fewer than 15 touches per game, he finished with a career-low 3.6 yards per carry, and he only scored one touchdown all year. He is now 30 years old and suffered a knee sprain in Week 12, so age and injuries may be catching up to him. He also faces more competition than ever, as Devin Neal (hamstring) and Kendre Miller (knee) both flashed the ability to occupy lead-back roles before landing on season-ending injured reserve. Trade rumors have circled around Kamara for several years, but he has indicated that he wants to remain a Saint for life. Now, it's a question of whether New Orleans wants to keep him on the books for 2026. This team is looking to get younger, and cutting Kamara post-June 1 would create $8.5 million in cap space.

Saturday, December 27, 9:21 PM

Tennessee Titans running back Tony Pollard is in the middle of a strong stretch of play. Pollard has rushed for over 100 yards in three straight games. During that span, Pollard has totaled 367 yards with three touchdowns. He'll look to keep the good times rolling against the New Orleans Saints in Week 17. A defense that has allowed the seventh-most rushing yards to running backs this season. The only downside is that Pollard is expected to continue splitting the carries with Tyjae Spears. Given Pollard's success, he figures to continue getting plenty of chances. Fantasy managers should consider Pollard a low-end RB2 for this favorable Week 17 matchup.