JoshDowns

News: 1 day agoDowns (groin) is back at practice Tuesday, Joel A. Erickson of The Indianapolis Star reports.

Spin: While the extent of Downs' participation is uncertain, a quick return to practice confirms his groin injury isn't serious. He was held out over the weekend and now seems ready to return after missing just a few days. With Alec Pierce (ankle) still unavailable, Downs is the unquestioned No. 1 WR at Indianapolis practices these days.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: Downs has settled in as a serviceable slot receiver, which has helped him to finish in the 35-to-45 range among WRs in total fantasy points in each of his three NFL seasons. Downs peaked with a 72-803-5 receiving line in 2024, but took a step back in a crowded offense last season, and failed to deliver a single fantasy week better than 15th at the position. The undersized Downs isn't an option near the goal line, as he hasn't cleared five touchdowns or three end zone targets in a single season. The 25-year-old has a path to a larger role in 2026 with Michael Pittman Jr. gone, leaving Alec Pierce and Tyler Warren as his primary target competition. Downs is a sleeper for flex production in PPR formats.