Who Should I Start? Justin Jefferson or Josh Downs

Friday, December 19, 6:15 PM

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson has been in an awful slump over the last few weeks. In the previous three games, Jefferson has been held to six receptions for 37 yards and hasn't scored a touchdown during that span. The 26-year-old clearly isn't on the same page as quarterback J.J. McCarthy right now. The upside is too high for fantasy managers to keep Jefferson on the bench this weekend. He has a favorable matchup against the New York Giants in Week 16. A secondary that has allowed the fifth-most yards to wideouts this season. The duds aren't due to a lack of ability, but because of inconsistent quarterback play. Despite the rough stretch, Jefferson comes in as RotoBaller's WR22 in the latest rankings and will try to break out of his slump in a plus matchup vs. the Giants in Week 16.

Sunday, December 21, 1:00 AM

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs presents as a low-floor fantasy dart throw for his home outing with the San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football. Downs hauled in 3-of-5 passes for 13 yards in last weekend's 18-16 loss to the Seahawks, accounting for Philip Rivers' first touchdown pass since Week 17 of the 2020 season. With Rivers under center, Indy went with a short, quick pass attack to cater to the veteran's current capabilities. While it was effective on the field, an equal administering of pass attempts will hurt all involved on the Indianapolis side of the ball. As it stands, Downs is a downright chore to cover in that area of the field, potentially giving him a leg up on teammates Michael Pittman Jr. and Alec Pierce in the Colts' attack. Even if that's the case, though, the third-year pro's standing as the third option regarding snap share at the position significantly limits his ceiling. Downs may still hold some modest value in DFS formats, but is tough to trust as RotoBaller's PPR WR62 for Week 16.