Who Should I Start? Amari Cooper or Josh Downs

Friday, December 20, 4:02 PM

It's safe to call Buffalo Bills Amari Cooper (wrist) a risky fantasy football option in the team's matchup against the New England Patriots. The veteran earned 14 targets in a shootout versus Los Angeles two weeks ago. He followed that up with zero targets against Detroit (another shootout). Rookie Keon Coleman returned to the lineup last week and created a crowded wide receiver room. Cooper's been a part-time player since his arrival in upstate New York, often playing fewer snaps than Khalil Shakir, Coleman, and Mack Hollins. Cooper could also see a lot of star cornerback Christian Gonzalez on Sunday. There are no concerns about his wrist injury, but fantasy managers shouldn't trust Cooper in lineups this weekend.

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.