Who Should I Start? Terry McLaurin or Josh Downs

Thursday, November 13, 9:37 AM

Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin (quad) is working on the side of the team's Thursday practice with athletic trainers after missing Wednesday's practice, according to John Keim of ESPN. Despite McLaurin's appearance at practice, the Commanders have already ruled him out for Week 11's game at Miami. The former Ohio State standout will have missed seven games heading into a Week 12 bye, part of a nightmarish year for a Washington team coming off a run to last season's NFC Championship Game. McLaurin has been one of fantasy football's bigger disappointments in 2025, but with a return seemingly likely in Week 13, he could be a welcome addition for managers making a playoff push.

Saturday, November 15, 12:41 AM

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs saw a massive reduction in snaps and targets during his last game against the Atlanta Falcons. In Berlin, Downs played a mere 43 percent of the Colts' offensive snaps, converting two targets into one catch for three yards. The 24-year-old impressed as the WR35 in PPR leagues last season, but he has taken a step backward this year. He ranks outside the top 40 receivers and can no longer be trusted on a week-to-week basis. One reason for Downs' struggles is the increased competition around him. Indy is leaning on the run more than usual given Jonathan Taylor's success, and they've also gotten exceptional contributions from Tyler Warren, Michael Pittman Jr., and Alec Pierce. This has left Downs as somewhat of the odd man out. We do expect him to command more than two targets per game going forward, but he's not startable for the time being. Managers should leave Downs on the bench when the Colts return from their bye in Week 12.