Who Should I Start? Josh Downs or Jayden Reed

Saturday, December 21, 12:38 AM

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs returned from a one-game absence after the Colts' bye week in Week 15, only to produce three catches for 32 yards. While the eight looks the 23-year-old drew were encouraging, Anthony Richardson's sub-50% completion rate continues to limit Indy's receivers. On top of that, the second-year quarterback has four rushing touchdowns on the ground over the last four weeks compared to just three through the air (along with four INTs), further capping their upside. In addition, the Colts take on the Titans in Week 16, a defense that has allowed the fifth-fewest fantasy points to opposing receivers on the season. Michael Pittman Jr. has been more productive over the last four weeks, but Alec Pierce will be out on Sunday as he recovers from a concussion, so Downs could benefit from a few extra looks. The former third-round pick is shaping up to be a WR4 this week in a contest that features one of the lower expected totals on the board.

Saturday, December 21, 4:41 PM

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Jayden Reed had a hot start to his 2024 NFL season but has been stuck in a slump and Reed looks like climb out of it in Week 16 against the New Orleans Saints. Reed has 34 receiving yards or fewer and is averaging less than four targets per game in his last five games. While Reed has three touchdowns in those games, those touchdowns are what is fueling his fantasy value lately, not his target-earning ability. Add in Romeo Doubs returning to the Packers' lineup from concussion protocol last week, and that addition continues to smooth out targets for every other pass-catching option for Green Bay. The Saints have been a middle-of-the-pack team in defending slot receivers this season, so the matchup good. Despite that, Reed is a low-end flex option for fantasy managers given the Packers' focus on the run and dwindling passing-game opportunities.