The Indianapolis Colts (7-1) will visit the Pittsburgh Steelers (4-3) in Week 9. Here’s the latest fantasy football news and advice to help you with your lineups this week and moving forward, specifically regarding WR Josh Downs.
Is Downs Playing in Week 9?
Downs is not on the injury report, and barring a surprise, he is expected to play.
We’ll continue to monitor the Colts’ injury report leading up to kickoff for any changes. You can also visit and bookmark our Fantasy News Tracker for the latest updates.
Should You Start or Sit Downs in Week 9?
I’m not sure that the talent gap between Josh Downs and Michael Pittman is close to what the 2025 statistics suggest, and that’s going to result in my being higher on the former than most of the industry on a routine basis.
Downs has scored in consecutive games and has worked himself into the slot role, with over 60% of his routes coming there every single week this season.
Could that mean a true breakout game awaits?
The Steelers looked vulnerable all over the field on Sunday night, and, for the season, they rank 20th against that spot on the floor in YPA and 26th in yards per completion.
The fact that Downs has yet to reach 70 air yards caps my enthusiasm, but I don’t think he’s an unreasonable PPR flex this week and is an interesting DFS pivot off of what I assume will be very popular pieces elsewhere on this offense.
Are you looking for start/sit advice for other players in your lineup? Read our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em Cheat Sheet.
Downs’ Fantasy Points Projection in Week 9
Downs is projected to score 12.5 fantasy points in PPR formats.
We project Downs to have 5 receptions for 57 yards and 0.3 touchdowns. Downs could also add 1 rushing yard.
Check out the free PFSN Fantasy Start-Sit Optimizer for the latest projections and advice for your lineups this week.
Week 9 Weather Impact: Colts at Steelers
The forecast for kickoff is 53 degrees Fahrenheit with 9 mph winds. These are ideal conditions for fantasy production.