Who Should I Start? Josh Downs or Ricky Pearsall

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.

Friday, December 13, 12:30 AM

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall caught just one of his four targets during Thursday's loss to the Los Angeles Rams, finishing Week 15 with 16 yards. The rookie pass-catcher has struggled to emerge as a relevant option in redraft leagues given his No. 3 role behind Deebo Samuel Sr. and Jauan Jennings. The 24-year-old has just 13 catches for 153 yards this year, and most of that production came in a singular game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers back in Week 10. As long as Pearsall remains third on the depth chart, he should be benched or left on waivers in fantasy football. That trend continues next week against the Miami Dolphins, who have been quite stingy against opposing wide receivers in 2024.