Who Should I Start? Raheem Mostert or Emari Demercado

Saturday, October 4, 6:35 PM

Las Vegas Raiders running back Raheem Mostert appears to have overtaken Zamir White as the team's No. 2 option behind starter Ashton Jeanty. In Week 4, Mostert handled all eight snaps that Jeanty didn't play, making the most of his limited workload with 62 rushing yards on just four carries and adding an 11-yard reception. His explosiveness and home-run ability bring an exciting change of pace to the Raiders offense, giving him value in best ball formats where big plays can swing outcomes. However, Mostert's fantasy appeal in standard leagues remains limited, as Jeanty continues to dominate the touches in Las Vegas. Unless an injury opens the door for a larger role, Mostert should be viewed as a stash or deep-league bench option rather than a weekly fantasy contributor.

Sunday, October 5, 12:26 PM

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that Arizona Cardinals running back Emari Demercado "will stay in the same role" on third downs. Meanwhile, Michael Carter will take over on first and second downs with Trey Benson (knee) out four to six weeks after having surgery on his meniscus. James Conner (ankle) has already been lost for the year, so the Cardinals' backfield depth is being tested early on. Arizona could plan more designed runs for slippery quarterback Kyler Murray, too. Demercado had two carries for eight yards and caught both of his targets for 13 yards and a touchdown in the Week 4 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. While the 26-year-old will be more involved with Benson out, it's Carter that should see more volume, and thus be a better flex play in fantasy lineups, starting this Sunday against the winless Tennessee Titans. Demercado is a better flex option in PPR formats.