Alvin Kamara vs Kenneth Gainwell: Who Should You Start?
Deciding between Alvin Kamara and Kenneth Gainwell is a common lineup dilemma for fantasy managers. The New Orleans Saints running back put up 7.7 PPG in 2025 over 11 games; Kenneth Gainwell of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers averaged 10.9 in 17. A 3.2-point margin that could shift on any given week.
The per-game difference of 3.2 points favors Kenneth Gainwell, though savvy managers know that gap can shrink or widen depending on the weekly slate. Defensive matchup, recent scoring trends, and health status all shift the calculus from one running back to the other.
Kenneth Gainwell is the receiving back in this matchup, turning 73 targets into 486 yards, while Alvin Kamara profiles as a more traditional rusher with 471 rushing yards and 1 touchdowns. In PPR and half-PPR formats Kenneth Gainwell carries the higher weekly floor. In standard leagues the gap tightens considerably.
One scheduling note: Alvin Kamara is off Week 12 and Kenneth Gainwell Week 11. If these two are on your roster, you will need a fill-in running back for both weeks. DraftCall flags bye conflicts so you can plan ahead rather than panic on waivers.
