Who Should I Start? Josh Downs or Brian Thomas Jr.
Week 1 Projections
| Fant. Pts. |
Rush. Yds. |
Rush TD |
Rec. | Rec. Yds. |
Rec TD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 |
Josh Downs News
Monday, June 22, 5:13 AM
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs has predominantly been used out of the slot through his first three seasons in the league, but following the departure of Michael Pittman Jr. via trade to the Steelers, the 5'9" former third-round pick could be moved all over the formation. The Colts committed $84 million in guaranteed money to presumed number one receiver Alec Pierce following a career year in 2025, but behind him, the table is set for Downs to step into an expanded role. Downs was seen lined up on the outside throughout mandatory minicamp, routinely making plays regardless of which quarterback was running the offense, and head coach Shane Steichen told reporters, "I think Downs, his role will step up a little bit more - more targets for him." The 24-year-old Downs is RotoBaller's WR44 for 2026, and, set to reach free agency in 2027, he could be the next Colts receiver to see a massive payday.
Week 1 Projections
| Fant. Pts. |
Rush. Yds. |
Rush TD |
Rec. | Rec. Yds. |
Rec TD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 |
Brian Thomas Jr. News
Tuesday, June 23, 9:25 AM
Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence said his chemistry with wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. has improved this offseason, according to John Oehser of the team's official website. "Last year, at times we just weren't on the same page for whatever reason," Lawrence said. "We have taken a huge step in that area. He's so fast, running by guys all the time. A lot of it was looking at myself and saying, 'OK, where can I improve and get better? How can I get him the ball more accurately on time down the field, give him opportunities to go run under the ball and make plays? He's such a talented player. We just have to find those opportunities more. We talked about it a lot -- BT, Liam, all of us. It's starting to pay off, and it's just the beginning." Thomas was exceptional as a rookie in 2024, catching 87 passes for 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns in 17 games, but he took a step back in Year 2 and finished with a 48-707-2 line in 14 regular-season games. Even with Jakobi Meyers and Parker Washington having big roles in the Jags' passing attack, Thomas could bounce back in 2026 with improved chemistry with Lawrence. He'll come cheap in 2026 fantasy drafts and should be targeted as a WR3/flex with upside.
Josh Downs vs. Brian Thomas Jr.
Still trying to decide between Downs and Thomas Jr.? Check on the latest news to make sure both players are active and healthy. Our PPR projections show that Josh Downs is projected to score 0.0 points this week while Brian Thomas Jr. is projected to score 0.0 points.
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