Who Should I Start? Jordan Mims or Emari Demercado

Wednesday, August 21, 9:19 AM

New Orleans Saints running back Jordan Mims went undrafted last year out of Fresno State, and after a brief stint with the San Francisco 49ers, he landed with the Saints and played in two regular-season games. With Kendre Miller (hamstring) continuing to deal with injuries, Mims has seen extra opportunities this offseason. According to Ross Jackson of LouisianaSports.net, he has made the most of them. "The play began with [Derek] Carr and Mims talking in the backfield, Carr looking to instruct the running back on how to attack the play," Jackson wrote. "The conversation paid off as Mims beat linebacker Demario Davis down the left sideline for what would have been a big gain. It was an impressive catch by the back who continues to catch eyes." It's important not to overreact to a practice highlight, but if Miller can't stay healthy or make an impact, Mims could occupy the RB3 role behind Alvin Kamara and Jamaal Williams in 2024. This report puts him on the deep-league fantasy football radar, but he can be ignored in traditional drafts.

Saturday, August 17, 11:31 PM

Arizona Cardinals running back Emari Demercado got a good amount of work in the Cardinals' second preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts on Saturday. Demercado led the running backs with 10 carries but for a paltry 24 yards. He also added one catch on his lone target for nine yards. The battle for the RB3 spot likely comes down to Demercado and Michael Carter, as the two traded third-down snaps with Demercado taking a slight 4-to-3 edge. Carter did take 4-of-5 two-minute drill snaps, however, per PFF's Nathan Jahnke. Demercado should go undrafted in fantasy drafts, but he was solidly useful for a spell last season when he was the lead back with James Conner hurt. With Conner and rookie Trey Benson in tow, Demercado becomes depth running back for Arizona who needs multiple injuries to be relevant in fantasy for 2024.