Should I Start Josh Downs?

Saturday, September 19, 4:37 AM

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs didn't do much in Week 1 against the Baltimore Ravens, catching just two of his four targets for 37 receiving yards and finishing with only 5.7 PPR fantasy points. It's not all doom and gloom, though. The Ravens totally dominated the Colts defense on the ground, and dominated time of possession. Additionally, Colts quarterback Daniel Jones tore his Achilles tendon late last offseason, and he's still working his way back to full health. Downs is typically a very efficient receiver on a yards per route basis, though he mostly plays in the slot, meaning he's off the field for 2WR sets while WRs Alec Pierce (heel) and Keenan Allen stay on the field, since they're better blockers. Downs is the third option in this passing offense, after Pierce and tight end Tyler Warren. He can be started in deep PPR leagues for his upside, though he may need some time to get going this season on a struggling offense. He's still a very good short-to-intermediate route runner with excellent change-of-direction ability.