DK Metcalf vs Josh Downs
Two wide receivers fantasy managers weigh against each other for 2026. Here is the head-to-head on projections, expert consensus, ADP and usage, with our Clutch Score verdict on who to draft.
Who to draft
Strong edge · 95% confident
DK Metcalf- Higher projection: 183 vs 172 pts
- Experts agree: consensus rank 74 vs 84
- More points per game: 12.5 vs 8.5
DK Metcalf and Josh Downs are a common 2026 draft-day decision at wide receiver. DK Metcalf holds the edge in expert consensus (WR34 to WR37). DK Metcalf typically comes off the board first, around pick 75 (round 7) to Josh Downs's pick 114. The 2026 projections give a modest edge: DK Metcalf at 183 PPR points (10.8 per game) versus Josh Downs at 172.
Last season DK Metcalf carried the heavier workload (87% snap share, 101 touches to Josh Downs's 90), and opportunity is the most stable predictor of fantasy value. Josh Downs is the younger option (age 25), which tilts the long-term and dynasty edge. For a 2026 redraft, DK Metcalf is the clear pick on the higher projection, stronger expert consensus and an earlier ADP.
Head-to-head
| Stat | Metcalf | Downs |
|---|---|---|
| Projected points | 183 | 172 |
| Points / game | 12.5 | 8.5 |
| Games played | 15 | 16 |
| Expert rank (ECR) | #74 | #84 |
| ADP | 75 | 114 |
| Positional rank | WR26 | WR44 |
| Snap share | 87% | 58% |
| Red-zone touches | 14 | 14 |
| Age | 28 | 25 |
| Bye week | 9 | 13 |
Highlighted value wins each row. Season stats are 2025 (PPR); projections, ADP and consensus are for 2026.
Setting a lineup this week? Start/sit: DK Metcalf or Josh Downs.
Frequently asked
Should I draft DK Metcalf or Josh Downs in 2026?
DK Metcalf is a clear call over Josh Downs for 2026, on the higher projection, stronger expert consensus and an earlier ADP.
Who is projected to score more, DK Metcalf or Josh Downs?
DK Metcalf carries the higher 2026 projection at 183 PPR points (10.8 per game), compared with 172 for Josh Downs.
Where are DK Metcalf and Josh Downs being drafted?
DK Metcalf has an ADP around pick 75 (round 7), while Josh Downs goes closer to pick 114 (round 10).
Who is ranked higher, DK Metcalf or Josh Downs?
Expert consensus ranks DK Metcalf (WR34) ahead of Josh Downs (WR37) for 2026.
More comparisons
Verdict blends projections, usage, positional rank, consensus and health. Data via the Sleeper API and FantasyPros consensus, refreshed daily.