Who Should I Start? Keaton Mitchell or Audric Estime

Sunday, July 27, 9:52 AM

According to Sarah Ellison, Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator told reporters Keaton Mitchell is fighting to get touches in the backfield right now. It's the simple fact that the Ravens don't really need a third string back at the moment. Derrick Henry is the workhorse back and Justice Hill has proven to be a versatile option in the backfield. That being said, Mitchell and Rasheen Ali probably won't see much action to begin the season. Mitchell was limited to eight games during his rookie season due to an ACL tear. He only played in five contests last season and doesn't have a path to consistent playing time in Baltimore right now.

Friday, May 30, 5:30 PM

On Thursday, Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton noted that running back Audric Estime will garner increased opportunities in his second season with the team. "He's a back that requires enough touches," said Payton. "He's going to get those opportunities." The former fifth-round rookie was undoubtedly lacking in opportunities in 2024 -- placing fourth on the team in carries and rushing yards behind backfield mates Javonte Williams and Jaleel McLaughlin and quarterback Bo Nix. Estime was a productive player in his final season at Notre Dame, finishing with 1,341 yards and 18 rushing scores in 12 games. However, Denver's recent selection of RJ Harvey in the second round adds formidable competition in the backfield. Harvey is slotted in first on the team's unofficial depth chart, ahead of Estime for now. The latter projects to be more of a traditional short-yardage back due to his larger stature, but Harvey is also a force between the tackles and profiles as a better pass-catcher despite poor pass-protection skills.