Who Should I Start? Ty Chandler or Audric Estime

Saturday, August 16, 6:58 PM

Minnesota Vikings running back Ty Chandler rushed three times for 12 yards and dropped his only target on Saturday against the New England Patriots. It was yet another uninspiring performance for the UNC product, who doesn't appear to be a lock to make Minnesota's 53-man roster. Chandler's best case at this point may be as a returner, especially after the Vikings lost receiver Rondale Moore (knee) for the season, but Zavier Scott is also lurking as a viable RB3 candidate who has put together a good camp and back-to-back strong showings in the preseason. This will be a battle to watch in the coming weeks.

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.