Who Should I Start? Josh Downs or Jayden Reed

Wednesday, December 10, 12:17 AM

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs hasn't been a big fantasy factor this season, recording 44 receptions for 393 yards and three touchdowns on 65 targets. After a promising sophomore campaign last year, Downs hasn't been emphasized with three other talented pass-catchers in the Colts' offense, plus a lean towards the run with a superstar back Jonathan Taylor. With quarterback Daniel Jones (Achilles) out for the season and 44-year-old Philip Rivers expected to be the team's starter moving forward, it's possible that Downs' opportunities will increase with Rivers primarily operating in the short area of the field. The 24-year-old's fantasy upside is still capped while being limited to routes in three-wide receiver sets. Downs still profiles as a deep-league flex option for a tough Week 15 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks, but his floor is probably lower now with Jones done for the year.

Thursday, December 11, 10:54 AM

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Jayden Reed (shoulder) was limited in Wednesday's practice ahead of Week 15. Reed made his return last week, catching four passes for 31 yards, while adding 22 yards on two carries on the ground. After missing nearly the whole season with a broken collarbone and a fracture in his foot, he was a difference maker in the 28-21 win over the division rival Chicago Bears. Reed was limited to just 49% of the snaps in Week 14, which is down from his 2024 average of 63%, so expect that to improve moving forward. He faces the Denver Broncos defense, which has allowed the second-fewest fantasy points to wide receivers this season. Assuming he's active, Reed will be much needed in Week 15, but he is a high-risk/high-reward option in fantasy this week.