Fantasy Football: Is Mark Ingram Worth of RB1 Status?
When it comes to his Fantasy Football value, is running back Mark Ingram worthy of being a RB1 in lineups? Make no mistake about it, he’s worth taking a risk on.
It’s that time of year now where fantasy football owners are finalizing their draft boards in anticipation for a memorable season ahead. When it comes to which positions should get top priority within the first few rounds of any fantasy draft, running backs and wide receivers reign supreme.
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For owners looking for a reliable and consistent RB1 option, guys like Adrian Peterson, Todd Gurley and Ezekiel Elliott will be the most popular ones to choose from. When it comes to running back Mark Ingram on the other hand, some owners shy away from committing to him since he doesn’t bring such eye-popping stats.
Considering he has yet to break over 1,000 rushing yards after five years in the NFL, owners need to know one of his biggest traits above all else is consistency. Last season with the New Orleans Saints, Ingram totaled 769 rushing yards, six touchdowns and averaged about 4.6 yards per rushing attempt.
His six touchdowns in 2015 wasn’t bad at all as now that the Saints’ offense will more than likely be a more balanced attack, Ingram could potentially be in a great situation to thrive in with many more reps coming his way. There is no denying his skill-set once the football is in his hands but now that the Saints actually plan to run the football much more this time around, Ingram is on his way to making a huge impact in fantasy football.
Ingram could potentially continue having a hybrid role on offense as last year, he also totaled a career-high 405 receiving yards on 50 receptions.
If Ingram can keep those chains moving on the ground and also double up his value on offense as a receiving option out of the backfield, he would make an excellent RB1.
He’s a running back that can produce consistent results on a weekly basis and even though he’s a bit under the radar, will absolutely shine this upcoming season.
Ingram has the skill-set to be an every down kind of running back which bodes well for owners everywhere. Expect to see him receive the bulk of snaps in 2016 and not look back at all.
Of course health is always an issue, especially with Ingram coming off a shoulder injury from last year. He should be good to go in 2016 and if he can play in every game, could easily reach some serious fantasy numbers.
The potential is there for Ingram to start off slow and then work his way into a premier fantasy option. It might be risky taking him either in the second or third round of your fantasy draft but rest assured he’s going to surprise many when it matters most.
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Overall, with Ingram possibly being a touchdown machine in 2016 with how well he does in goal-line situations, expect to see consistent results all season long. His fantasy value might be a bit low for now but remember, he has the opportunity to be a difference-maker early and often for the Saints as they are ready to feature him extensively.