Who Should I Start? Alvin Kamara or Travis Etienne

Sunday, September 8, 6:40 PM

New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara looked good in Sunday's decisive win over the Panthers. The veteran ran the ball 15 times, accumulating 83 yards and a touchdown. He also got involved on the receiving end, catching all five targets for 27 yards. Kamara and the Saints had contract discussions over the last few months. However, a deal didn't get done, meaning further talks will likely wait until after the 2024-25 campaign. Despite not getting a new deal, Kamara remains focused on his play. "I'm not worried about it," said Kamara when asked about the unsuccessful negotiations. "I'm here to play. I'm gonna play. I'm gonna perform." It appears the 29-year-old is more focused than ever, which is great news for fantasy managers. Keep him starting in all formats when the Saints meet the Cowboys in Week 2.

Monday, September 9, 7:20 AM

Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. finished with 44 rushing yards on 12 carries and 15 yards on two catches in a 17-14 loss to the Miami Dolphins. He also fumbled out of the back of the endzone for a touchback. The Jaguars offense disappointed overall, scoring all 17 points in the first half. Backup running back Tank Bigsby was one of the few bright spots, putting up 73 yards on 12 carries of his own. However, it was Etienne Jr. who scored the lone rushing touchdown from one yard out in the first quarter, salvaging his fantasy output. His fantasy managers shouldn't be too concerned going forward, as the Jaguars offense won't struggle as badly as they did in the second half for the entire season. The third-year pro should maintain RB1 expectations next week against the Cleveland Browns in Week 2, a defense that allowed 40 yards and a touchdown to Ezekiel Elliot on 10 carries in Week 1.