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Since Adrian Peterson’s departure from the New Orleans Saints, rookie rusher Alvin Kamara is playing lights out. The third-round pick has averaged 97 yards of offense in the two games post-Peterson. Kamara’s snap count was almost even with starting running back Mark Ingram in Week 7. Ingram had the carry advantage with 12 more touches, but Kamara outpaced Ingram in the passing game by 45 yards and finished the game with just two fewer total yards at 107.
Kamara gets a good matchup against the Chicago Bears Sunday. The Bears have struggled against pass-catching running backs this season, allowing at least three catches to five opposing running backs and 36 or more yards receiving to four opposing rushers. Kamara is the second-highest targeted player in the Saints offense.
Fantasy impact: Kamara is a legit fantasy weapon now that Adrian Peterson is out of the way. He is not going to challenge Ingram in carries, but he is a stud in the passing game, and quarterback Drew Brees is constantly looking to feed him with screen passes. Sunday, Kamara faces a Bears defense that has given up a fair amount of receiving yardage to running backs. Kamara could have another 100-plus yards from scrimmage easily this week.