Who Should I Start? Theo Johnson or Josh Downs

Tuesday, October 7, 10:26 PM

New York Giants tight end Theo Johnson is a risky, touchdown-dependent stream for the Thursday night matchup, despite his emergence as a key red-zone weapon. Johnson, the TE16 in fantasy with 7.08 fantasy points per game, has found the end zone three times this year, a figure made remarkable by the fact that rookie QB Jaxson Dart's only career touchdown passes have all gone to the tight end. This connection is vital, as Johnson operates with a high 75.4% snap share on his 15 receptions and 22 targets, but the Philadelphia Eagles present a brutal challenge. They rank as the 4th toughest fantasy defense against tight ends, allowing just 7.82 points against per game. Furthermore, the Eagles' elite 3rd-ranked red zone defense, which boasts a 42.9% Defense Red Zone TD Rate, significantly lowers the odds of Johnson continuing his unsustainable touchdown pace, making him a desperation play.

Saturday, October 11, 9:03 AM

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs is off to a slow start in 2025. The veteran slot receiver has now caught just 20 passes for 175 scoreless yards in five contests. Downs thrived on seeing high volume over the past two seasons, but new Indy quarterback Daniel Jones seems to prefer throwing to Michael Pittman Jr. and Tyler Warren in the passing attack. Downs will hope to get it going in Week 6's home matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. The Cardinals are allowing the 20th-most fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season, setting up a moderately tough matchup for Downs and company. Downs is on the radar as a WR4/flex option in PPR leagues this season.