Who Should I Start? Emanuel Wilson or Devin Neal

Thursday, September 4, 11:34 AM

Green Bay Packers running back Emanuel Wilson has officially been named the team's backup option to open 2025, ahead of teammates Chris Brooks and the injured MarShawn Lloyd (hamstring). Wilson was the Pack's second-leading rusher in 2024 (502 yards), appearing in all 17 games during his second professional season. The 26-year-old flashed as he spelled starter Josh Jacobs, and has rushed for over 4.87 yards per carry in each of his first two campaigns. His upside (and floor) will be limited while Jacobs has a stranglehold on the lead job, but at least for the early part of this year, he'll be the handcuff to own. This situation could become more fluid when Lloyd returns following the first four games, but Wilson will get a chance to run away with the second-string job while he's shelved, and is capable enough to do so.

Saturday, August 30, 10:55 AM

New Orleans Saints running back Devin Neal is listed fourth on the team's depth chart, but still made the most of his limited preseason opportunities. The sixth-round pick out of Kansas was sidelined with a hamstring injury for a large chunk of training camp, preventing him from winning the backup job to Alvin Kamara. Kendre Miller earned that role, relegating Neal to fight for touches with converted wide receiver and special teams player Velus Jones Jr. Neal impressed head coach Kellen Moore and backup quarterback Tyler Shough in his lone preseason appearance (seven touches for 30 yards), and the team parted ways with Clyde Edwards-Helaire shortly after. It will take an injury or two for Neal to receive meaningful touches on what could be the league's worst offense. He doesn't need to be drafted in standard-sized redraft leagues this season.