Colts Pass-Catcher 'Best Value Pick' in Fantasy Leagues

Downs' fantasy forecast for the 2025 season may be bright heading into year three, but the developing situation at quarterback might greatly affect it. It's fair to say that Downs likely benefits more from Daniel Jones starting over Anthony Richardson.

Richardson and Downs built the necessary rapport early in their careers, but Richardson's wild accuracy (especially with shorter throws) might hold Downs back. To rehash it, Richardson completed a mere 47.7 percent of his 264 attempts, which helps no receiver on the roster. If Richardson beats out Jones and is even sub-60 percent, it still doesn't help Downs too much.

Jones, on the other hand, is far more akin to throwing safe, shorter passes. Yes, Downs can do it all as a receiver when it comes to handling various areas of the field and his route tree, but he dominates most in the short game as a safety blanket, where Jones loves to operate.

Unfortunately for a talent like Downs, his 2025 season may not be entirely within his control. The good news is that Downs has plenty surrounding him to help take opposing defenses' attention away, allowing the former Tarheel to operate against zone and man coverages more freely.

It's also encouraging that defenses must account for a potent ground attack that features two-time Pro Bowler and All-Pro, Jonathan Taylor, who carried the pigskin 21.6 times per game in 2024. If the ground attack is humming, it will only further assist Downs with operating in the passing game.

Expect Downs to continue where he left off in 2024 if things fall in line for Shane Steichen's offense. He's still seen as WR2 behind Pittman, especially when considering the latter played with a fractured back last year. However, it's not out of the realm to say Downs isn't far from becoming Indy's WR1, with the potential to propel fantasy managers to greatness.

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