Josh Downs Set to Shine in Colts' 2026 Offense

On March 31st, the Indianapolis Colts see wide receiver Josh Downes stepping up big time

in their 2026 offense after a down year.

In 2025, the 24-year-old slot guy had 58 catches for 566 yards on 88 targets, a drop-prone.

His earlier averages of over 50 yards per game. That dip came from the team's shift to heavier

sets with two or more tight ends, jumping from about 25% of snaps in 20, 23 and 2024 to 36%

last season. Rookie Tyler Warren's impact made the offense explosive, but a cut into three

receiver looks where Downes thrived. Now with Michael Pittman Jr. traded to the Pittsburgh

Steelers for salary cap reasons, those targets have to go somewhere. General manager Chris Ballard

calls Downes their best separator, praising his toughness despite his five foot nine frame,

and even spots some instincts. Like retired legend Ty Hilton.

The Colts plan to keep multiple tight ends with Warren in year two and vets like Moalee Coxback,

but Downes could see slot work plus time outside. Coaches will test that in OTAs and training camp.

Ballard is straight hyped, saying more chances will unlock down special traits and boost the whole

attack moving forward.