Who Should I Start? Michael Carter or Raheem Blackshear

Tuesday, December 9, 9:43 PM

Arizona Cardinals running back Michael Carter has seen minimal usage as a rusher in recent weeks, as he has not recorded more than five carries in a game since Week 7. However, the 26-year-old has seen consistent work in the passing game, hauling in 15 receptions for 117 yards on 20 targets over the last four weeks. The Cardinals' backfield has been in a constant state of flux this season due to injuries. With James Conner (ankle), Trey Benson (knee), and Emari Demercado (ankle) sidelined, Carter and journeyman back Bam Knight have seen the majority of the work over the last month. Arizona could be getting Benson back in Week 15 against the Houston Texans, which may eliminate Carter's role. However, it appears the Cardinals are also considering shutting down Benson for the season due to his lingering knee injury. If Benson remains out, Carter could have some flex appeal for deep-league PPR fantasy managers thanks to his pass-catching ability.

Tuesday, July 1, 9:30 PM

Carolina Panthers running back Raheem Blackshear will "almost exclusively be a special teams player" in 2025 if the team elects to keep a fourth RB around beyond training camp, writes The Charlotte Observer's Alex Zietlow. The Panthers only kept three RBs a year ago. Even with rookie Jonathon Brooks (knee) out for most of last season, Blackshear didn't have a single rushing attempt until Week 16. The 27-year-old will primarily be competing with David Moore, Jimmy Horn Jr. and Hunter Renfrow for a spot on the team's 53-man roster as a return option. The former undrafted free agent in 2022 has had 68 touches for 341 scrimmage yards and three touchdowns on offense for the Panthers in the last three years while adding 66 kickoff returns for 1,734 yards and 23 punt returns for 200 yards. He's off the fantasy radar in the vast majority of leagues.