Who Should I Start? Cooper Kupp or Josh Downs

Friday, September 12, 12:09 PM

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Cooper Kupp should be avoided in fantasy lineups in Week 2 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. In fact, Kupp should be avoided until the Seahawks prove that they can make anything happen in the passing game outside of wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. That day may very well come. Kupp's role in the slot is very valuable in offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak's offense. However, the Seahawks will need time to implement the new system with all the new pieces fully. Kupp's volume will be one to watch in Week 2. He only received three targets in Week 1 with quarterback Sam Darnold locking in Smith-Njigba. As the offensive chemistry grows, Darnold will begin spreading the ball around more. Once Kupp's targets increase, he should find himself back on the flex radar. However, based on where he was drafted, you likely have plenty of other flex options in the short term.

Saturday, September 13, 8:11 AM

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs will take on the Denver Broncos at home in Week 2. Downs turned in a disappointing Week 1 performance in a win over the Miami Dolphins despite the Colts scoring 33 points, catching just two of three targets for 12 yards. The veteran slot receiver will look to bounce back after that performance, but might have a tough time doing so against an intimidating Broncos secondary. That being said, top Denver cornerback Patrick Surtain II is likely to spend more time on the outside covering Michael Pittman Jr., Adonai Mitchell, and Alec Pierce, which should open things up for Downs in the middle of the field. Downs has some appeal as a dart-throw flex option in PPR leagues, but he is better left on fantasy benches this weekend unless desperate.