Are the New Orleans Saints' lesser lights the key to your fantasy draft? Based on the exhibition opener, the Saints and some of their new and/or youngish faces are ready to play big roles in fantasy leagues.
Drew Brees sat out the exhibition opener, as did Pierre Thomas. Brees' absence didn't keep top pick Brandin Cooks from putting on a show. Thomas' absence hinted at the other running back talent the team has on its roster.
As anticipated, Cooks lined up all over the offensive formation, being targeted 8 times. He caught 5 balls including one that went for a 25-yard touchdown when he put a move on a defender. "He's quick with the ball in his hands," remarked Sean Payton, who downplayed the performance but had to be excited. Or maybe not, since he's been seeing it regularly in practice.
With Thomas out, Ingram drew the start, rushing 8 times for 83 yards and a touchdown, with a couple of runs from 20-plus yards. Much has been made about Ingram being a poor fit for the team's offense since he's not a receiver, but he's looking pretty good as a runner dating back to late last season. Khiry Robinson, who caught 2 passes and also scored, is more of do-it-all type of running back.
We seem to get excited about Saints running backs in the preseason all the time, and when the regular games role around, it's Pierre Thomas leading the way again. And maybe that will be the case again.
But with Ingram, Robinson, and Cooks lining up all over the place as a receiver and possibly running back, it's tempting to think about the Saints phasing Thomas out. Maybe this will be the year.
--Andy Richardson