New Orleans Saints running back Mark Ingram said Friday morning on the NFL Network that he plans to return from a broken hand against the Detroit Lions in Week 7, Sports Illustrated reports.
"My plan is to be back out there next week versus Detroit," Ingram said.
Ingram injured his hand against the Cleveland Browns in Week 2. Prior to the injury, the fourth-year rusher was off to the best start of his career with 143 yards on 24 carries and three touchdowns. Ingram, a first-round pick in 2011, has begun to play well when healthy the last two seasons after an unimpressive start to his career. In 13 games over the last two years, Ingram has rushed for a 5.4 yards per carry average and four touchdowns.
Both Pierre Thomas and Khiry Robinson have impressed during Ingram's absence. Second-year back Robinson has compiled 245 yards and one touchdown on 47 carries in three games without Ingram. Thomas has been a major factor in the passing game. Overall, the Saints are second in the NFL in total yards thanks to a second-ranked passing game and ninth-ranked rushing attack. New Orleans is running the ball more effectively than at any other time in the Sean Payton era.
But Ingram's return muddies an already frustrating running back by committee approach in New Orleans. While all three backs are worth roster spots, the time share will considerably limit their upside. The inconsistency in touches also makes starting any of the three backs a weekly risk. You just don't know which ball carrier is going to go off in a given week.
My advice to owners is to try and sell high on Thomas. I love his versatility and potential in PPR formats, but his value will not get any higher coming off a two touchdown day against Tampa Bay last week. Neither back can be counted on consistently despite their talent and Thomas will most likely average the fewest carries of the trio. Out of the three, you'll probably get the best return on Thomas right now.
The Saints have a bye this week and then face a Lions front that's allowing just 74 rushing yards per game.
