Who Should I Start? Adam Thielen or Josh Downs

Saturday, December 21, 3:16 AM

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen is expected to be quarterback Bryce Young's top option again in the Week 16 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. His fellow receiver's statuses are as follows: Xavier Legette (hip) is out, David Moore (concussion) is questionable, and Jalen Coker (quadriceps) is questionable. Thielen has produced for fantasy managers who kept him on their rosters following his Week 12 return from a hamstring injury. The 34-year-old has reeled in 25 of 32 targets for 309 yards and a touchdown over his last four games. Thielen continues leading Carolina in targets and receptions, making him a mid-range WR3/FLEX play this week, especially in PPR leagues. RotoBaller has Thielen WR29 in the latest wide receiver rankings for this week.

Saturday, December 21, 12:38 AM

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs returned from a one-game absence after the Colts' bye week in Week 15, only to produce three catches for 32 yards. While the eight looks the 23-year-old drew were encouraging, Anthony Richardson's sub-50% completion rate continues to limit Indy's receivers. On top of that, the second-year quarterback has four rushing touchdowns on the ground over the last four weeks compared to just three through the air (along with four INTs), further capping their upside. In addition, the Colts take on the Titans in Week 16, a defense that has allowed the fifth-fewest fantasy points to opposing receivers on the season. Michael Pittman Jr. has been more productive over the last four weeks, but Alec Pierce will be out on Sunday as he recovers from a concussion, so Downs could benefit from a few extra looks. The former third-round pick is shaping up to be a WR4 this week in a contest that features one of the lower expected totals on the board.