Who Should I Start? Stefon Diggs or Josh Downs

Friday, March 28, 4:14 PM

On Friday, New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs (knee) noted that he's excited to play with quarterback Drake Maye. "I'm excited. I really look forward to it," Diggs said. The Maryland product was productive in eight games with the Houston Texans in 2024 before an ACL tear derailed his season. Now, he's set to boost the Patriots' passing game and is reportedly on track to be ready for Week 1. New England's leading receiver a season ago was tight end Hunter Henry (66-674-2), so the 31-year-old enters a favorable situation to garner a significant target share right away if he's healthy. The Patriots have somewhat bolstered their offensive line in free agency but still have some work to do in that aspect. If their front is addressed, affording Maye more time to operate, Diggs could again provide value as a PPR asset, barring a setback in his recovery.

Sunday, January 5, 8:52 PM

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs caught 10 of his 13 targets for 94 yards during Sunday's Week 18 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Colts' passing attack has seen a significant boost ever since quarterback Joe Flacco took over for the injured Anthony Richardson (back), but Downs truly took his productivity to the next level during Sunday's season finale. He finishes the 2024 campaign with 72 catches, 803 yards, and five touchdowns. Each of these three marks represented season-highs, topping the totals he delivered as a rookie last year. Downs has firmly established himself as an appealing 1B option with the Colts, pairing nicely alongside their 1A receiver, Michael Pittman Jr. The UNC product will rank as a high-end WR3 when 2025 fantasy football drafts kick off next summer, and he has even greater appeal in dynasty leagues.