Hightower gained nine yards on four carries and one yard on one reception in Sunday's season opening loss to the Raiders.

EDGE Analysis

Even with C.J. Spiller a healthy inactive in Week 1, Hightower saw only four carries in relief of Mark Ingram, with Travaris Cadet getting most of the third-down snaps. When Ingram was sidelined at the end of last season, Hightower served as the Saints' three-down workhorse -- racking up nice yards on the ground and through the air. However, if Week 1 is any indication, should Ingram miss time this season, it appears that Hightower would probably receive the majority of the carries, but unlike last year, Cadet (or Spiller) would play a more significant role in the passing game.