The Indianapolis Colts wide receiver room just got a lot more interesting. And no, it’s not because of Alec Pierce’s massive $116 million extension.
Josh Downs is the name you need to know. After the Colts traded Michael Pittman Jr. to the Pittsburgh Steelers, the door swung wide open for Downs to become a primary target for quarterback Daniel Jones. ESPN’s Ben Solak sees something special coming.
Solak compared Downs to Seattle Seahawks breakout star Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
“I’m not here to predict a full Jaxon Smith-Njigba explosion from Downs as he works his way into more of a hybrid role; Downs is much shorter and lighter than JSN,” Solak wrote. “But I do think Downs shares Smith-Njigba’s fluidity as a route runner, which should open him up for deeper targets as coach Shane Steichen manufactures free releases for him off the line.”
The numbers back up the potential. Since 2023, Downs ranks 111th in air yards per target among 121 high-volume wide receivers. That’s a stat that screams untapped potential. If Steichen gets him involved in deeper routes, the production could spike.
Smith-Njigba’s 2024 line — 119 catches, 1,793 yards, 10 touchdowns — is a lofty target. But Solak’s point isn’t about matching those totals verbatim. It’s about opportunity. Downs has flashed before. Now the path is clear.
In 2025, the 5-foot-9 receiver caught 58 passes for 566 yards and four touchdowns. Over three seasons and 47 games in Indy, he’s piled up 198 receptions for 2,140 yards and 11 scores. Not bad for a third-round pick.
Downs enters 2026 with real expectations. But if Solak’s read is right, he won’t just be a name on the depth chart. He could be the kind of player fans circle on their fantasy boards and opponents game-plan around.
The Colts offense needed a shake-up after Pittman’s departure. Downs might be exactly that.
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