The question of whether Alvin Kamara is playing has dominated the last few weeks for the New Orleans Saints, but with other absences grabbing the headlines this week, Kamara has flown somewhat under the radar.
Let’s take a look at the latest updates regarding Kamara’s status and the fantasy football implications of his injury.
Is Alvin Kamara playing Sunday?
Once again, Kamara was limited all week and carried a questionable tag into the weekend. The fact he hadn’t garnered much attention from the media over in London appeared to be a positive sign. That suggested he was likely to be on the field this week, but that was not to be the case.
According to NFL Network’s Stacey Dales, head coach Dennis Allen confirmed that Kamara will be out for the Saints’ game in London. Kamara was then announced amongst New Orleans’ inactives.
On Saturday afternoon, ESPN’s Field Yates reported that the Saints had elevated RB Latavius Murray from the practice squad for Sunday’s game. That turned out to be a precursor to New Orleans ruling Kamara out for Week 4
Can fantasy managers trust Mark Ingram with Kamara out?
With Kamara out, Mark Ingram should be the starting RB for the Saints. He saw the majority of touches when Kamara missed Week 2 but did not completely dominate the backfield. However, we should see both Murray and D’Wayne Washington getting touches this week.
The matchup for the Saints is extremely enticing this week. The Vikings have allowed an average of 24.6 fantasy points per game in half-PPR formats to opposing running backs. That makes them the third-best matchup in the league for backs. Additionally, they have allowed more than 25 fantasy points to the position in two of the first three weeks.
The problem for Ingram’s fantasy value is whether he sees enough touches to be a 12-team league starter. With Kamara not on the field, Ingram almost becomes a 14-team-league Flex option by default.
Ingram only managed 10 rushing attempts the last time Kamara was out. However, he was reasonably effective with 58 yards on those carries. Through the first three weeks, he has 98 yards on 19 rushing attempts and four yards on three targets.
