Hightower gained five yards on two carries and four yards on one reception in Sunday's loss to the Lions.

EDGE Analysis

After fumbling twice in key spots in Weeks 7 and 8, respectively, Mark Ingram (toe) had been splitting snaps with Hightower for the most of the second half this year. In Week 13, however, Ingram assumed more of a feature role, garnering 12 touches (seven carries, five receptions) compared to Hightower's three. That said, with the Lions in control for most of the afternoon, neither running back saw much action in this one. While both Hightower and Ingram have generally been effective of late, Ingram's significantly larger workload in Week 13 could signal that the Saints are ready to return Ingram to a feature-back role. Hightower should continue to be rostered in the majority of fantasy leagues -- he still has plenty of value as a handcuff to the oft-injured Ingram and it still remains possible that his meager Week 13 workload was a one-week anomaly -- but Hightower is not a recommended start next Sunday against the Buccaneers.