Round 9 value with role expansion to outside receiver snaps

BDGE Fantasy Football recommends Josh Downs as a round 9 pick, citing role expansion and opportunity created by Michael Pittman's departure and Alec Pierce's ankle surgery recovery. Downs is expected to play outside receiver snaps beyond his traditional slot role, becoming a near-every-down player with Nick Westbrook-Ikhine as the only depth chart competition. The source notes Downs is one of the better separators at wide receiver with extensive slot experience, capable of running 80–90% of routes if deployed outside. Indianapolis's soft playoff schedule (Tennessee week 15, Cincinnati week 16, Cleveland without Myles Garrett week 17) further supports the pick. At round 9 ADP, the source emphasizes minimal opportunity cost.