Yahoo Fantasy Football on Josh Downs
From the article
Josh Downs' potential breakout season basically all comes down to him playing in more than just three-receiver sets...81% of Downs' targets came on routes from the slot, the highest in the NFL...The departure of Michael Pittman Jr. will open that potential up in 2026
STACKED’s take
Downs needs expanded role beyond slot to unlock breakout; Pittman's departure helps.
Downs' breakout potential hinges entirely on playing in more than just three-receiver sets; in 2025, 81% of his targets came from the slot, the highest in the NFL. Through his career, he has never played significant snaps when the slot WR is taken off the field for a second TE, severely limiting his fantasy impact. In games with 70%+ snap share, he becomes a usable PPR piece with over 13 PPG. The departure of Michael Pittman Jr. will open up that potential in 2026, especially if Alec Pierce isn't 100% prior to Week 1. Keenan Allen's addition is concerning for target competition, but he isn't expected to replace Downs in 2-WR sets, which is the most important factor.
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