Fantasy Upside
Mark Ingram has turned heads this preseason, rushing 21 times for 148 yards and a touchdown through three games. He looks like he's back at Alabama, flashing more quickness, burst and acceleration than at any point in his four-year career. He's also been solid in pass protection, which is obviously important considering he's protecting Drew Brees. While he remains stuck in a timeshare with Pierre Thomas and Khiry Robinson, Ingram could force Sean Payton's hand at some point and wind up being the lead back in the Saints' committee approach.
Fantasy Downside
Despite how good Ingram has looked, he remains stuck in a three-back timeshare with Thomas and Robinson. He also doesn't offer as much value in PPR leagues as Thomas, who will continue to see the majority of opportunities in the passing game. Due to his usage, Ingram will likely max out as a RB3 this season.
Bottom Line
Instead of the plodding runner that has been on display in the first three seasons of his career, Ingram finally looks like the back the Saints selected in the first round in 2011. The problem is that unless Thomas gets hurt, Ingram's fantasy production will be somewhat limited. There's simply too much good depth for Payton, who will continue to use all three backs during the regular season. While there's value in Ingram as a RB3, set your expectations accordingly.