Who Should I Start? Jalen Tolbert or Josh Downs

Wednesday, May 7, 1:22 PM

With the addition of wide receiver George Pickens via trade on Wednesday, Dallas Cowboys pass-catcher Jalen Tolbert will now operate as the team's No. 3 wideout in 2025 behind CeeDee Lamb and Pickens. Tolbert could also face competition from KaVontae Turpin for the role, but the 26-year-old should have the leg up for the WR3 job after a career year in 2024 in which he set career-highs in catches (49), targets (79), receiving yards (610) and touchdowns (seven) in 17 games (15 starts). Even in what should be a pass-happy Cowboys offense with quarterback Dak Prescott returning from his hamstring injury, Tolbert just won't have enough volume to make him worthy starting on a weekly basis in most fantasy leagues. However, if one of Lamb or Pickens misses time with an injury, Tolbert will be an attractive waiver-wire pickup.

Monday, September 15, 8:35 PM

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs disappointed in Week 1, catching just two passes for 12 yards in a win over the Miami Dolphins. Fortunately for his fantasy managers, Downs looked more like his usual self in Week 2, hauling in six of his eight targets for 51 yards against the Denver Broncos. With the Indy offense humming along with Daniel Jones under center, Downs should continue to string together productive fantasy outings, especially in PPR leagues. He should be treated as a high-end WR3/flex option heading into a Week 3 road matchup against the Tennessee Titans.