Who Should I Start? Jauan Jennings or Josh Downs

Thursday, January 8, 4:31 PM

Across 15 games in 2025, San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings recorded 55 receptions for 643 yards and nine touchdowns on 90 targets. The 28-year-old proved the ability to provide stable production, earning at least five targets in 10 out of his final 11 games of the season. Jennings also established himself as a red zone threat, scoring six touchdowns over his final six outings. Particularly with fellow 49ers wideout Ricky Pearsall (knee, ankle) battling injuries, Jennings appears poised to remain in his team's WR1 role for their Wild Card Weekend matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles. While Jennings may not carry explosive production upside, he's a solid bet for somewhere between five to seven targets and should get some looks in the end zone. Fantasy managers in playoff leagues should view Jennings as a solid wide receiver option entering the postseason.

Saturday, December 27, 2:34 PM

Across 14 games this season, Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs has recorded 52 receptions for 471 yards and four touchdowns on 79 targets. With an average of just 9.1 yards per reception, Downs lacks big-play upside. However, he's been a steady target-earner, recording at least five targets in six out of his last seven games. In Week 16, his second game this season playing with veteran quarterback Philip Rivers, Downs tied his season high with nine targets and hauled in five catches for 65 yards against the San Francisco 49ers. In Week 17, Downs and the Colts will face the Jacksonville Jaguars. Entering the week, Jacksonville's defense ranks 18th in the NFL in total passing yards allowed (3,492) and 27th in passing touchdowns allowed (26). The Jaguars held Downs to four catches for 23 yards on five in the first matchup of the season between the two teams in Week 14. Downs profiles as a high-floor, low-ceiling flex option for fantasy managers in Week 17 against Jacksonville.