Who Should I Start? Josh Downs or Charlie Jones

Sunday, January 5, 8:52 PM

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs caught 10 of his 13 targets for 94 yards during Sunday's Week 18 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Colts' passing attack has seen a significant boost ever since quarterback Joe Flacco took over for the injured Anthony Richardson (back), but Downs truly took his productivity to the next level during Sunday's season finale. He finishes the 2024 campaign with 72 catches, 803 yards, and five touchdowns. Each of these three marks represented season-highs, topping the totals he delivered as a rookie last year. Downs has firmly established himself as an appealing 1B option with the Colts, pairing nicely alongside their 1A receiver, Michael Pittman Jr. The UNC product will rank as a high-end WR3 when 2025 fantasy football drafts kick off next summer, and he has even greater appeal in dynasty leagues.

Sunday, December 22, 11:43 AM

Cincinnati Bengals offensive tackle Orlando Brown Jr. (leg) and wide receiver Charlie Jones (groin) are both inactive again for Week 16 against the division-rival Cleveland Browns on Sunday. This will mark Brown's third straight missed game and sixth overall this season since Week 9. With the 28-year-old out again, expect Cordell Volson to make another start at left tackle while protecting quarterback Joe Burrow's blind side. Jones, meanwhile, has not suited up for the Bengals since Week 8 due to his groin injury. The 26-year-old has played in eight games in his second season in the NFL in 2024 and has caught his only target for a five-yard gain. With Jones out yet again, Khalil Herbert and Isaiah Williams will handle return duties on special teams. Brown and Jones will try to get ready to return in what could be a pivotal contest in Week 17 against the Denver Broncos.