Who Should I Start? Mike Williams or Josh Downs

Thursday, July 17, 2:08 PM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Mike Williams, who was recently placed on the training-camp PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list, is retiring from the NFL after eight seasons. The 30-year-old entered the NFL as the No. 7 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft by the Chargers following a stellar career at Clemson. He spent the first seven seasons of his pro career with L.A. before playing for the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers in 2024. Overall, Williams tallied 330 receptions for 5,104 yards and 32 touchdowns. He hangs up his cleats with two 1,000-yard seasons on his resume. Known as a big-play threat, his impact diminished later in his career as he aged and dealt with injury. While he was unlikely to be a significant factor for the Chargers this year, his departure gives Quentin Johnston more breathing room after a slow start to his NFL career.

Saturday, December 27, 2:34 PM

Across 14 games this season, Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs has recorded 52 receptions for 471 yards and four touchdowns on 79 targets. With an average of just 9.1 yards per reception, Downs lacks big-play upside. However, he's been a steady target-earner, recording at least five targets in six out of his last seven games. In Week 16, his second game this season playing with veteran quarterback Philip Rivers, Downs tied his season high with nine targets and hauled in five catches for 65 yards against the San Francisco 49ers. In Week 17, Downs and the Colts will face the Jacksonville Jaguars. Entering the week, Jacksonville's defense ranks 18th in the NFL in total passing yards allowed (3,492) and 27th in passing touchdowns allowed (26). The Jaguars held Downs to four catches for 23 yards on five in the first matchup of the season between the two teams in Week 14. Downs profiles as a high-floor, low-ceiling flex option for fantasy managers in Week 17 against Jacksonville.