Audric Estime

Audric Estime is an interesting flex play this week with Alvin Kamara out. Estime will likely split the backfield work with Evan Hull this week. Last week, in the second half, Estime played 52.8% of the snaps with a 46.4% route share, finishing with six touches and 50 total yards. Evan Hull had both of the red zone carries last week, but that could have been circumstantial with who was rotating in on that drive. I'll lean on Estime's snap and route share last week as the possible lead back for this offense in Week 16, but is there volatility and risk playing him this week? Absolutely. Estime could pay off nicely this week, though. Since Week 11, New York has allowed the ninth-most rushing yards per game, the tenth-highest explosive run rate, and the third-most yards after contact per attempt.

Devin Neal left the game versus the Panthers due to a hamstring injury. He did not play in the second half. Evan Hull led the backfield with three carries in the second half, but Audric Estime also sprinkled in one carry with three receptions. Estime ended out-touching Hull while edging him out in total snaps (36% versus 32%).

ROS schedule. Great overall, and top 10 for RBs in the playoffs: Jets/Titans Weeks 16-17.

Hence why it's important to target the right Saints RB off waivers if Neal is out (and Alvin Kamara remains sidelined).

I've been an Estime-stan since he came out of Notre Dame - and the advantage in touches/snaps has me leaning toward him as my waiver wire target. He played 45% of the third down snaps, which suggests he should remain involved in the passing game. Estime is also the more physically imposing back, measuring at 5-foot-11 and 227 pounds. Bold.