Josh Downs is one of the best wide receivers on the Indianapolis Colts' roster, and according to an NFL analyst, he's also one of the best in the league. Last season, he set franchise records, and performed well this season despite having suffered several injuries. He's also known to have a close relationship with quarterback Anthony Richardson.
"Josh has been my guy since Day 1," Richardson told the IndyStar. "We both got drafted together. We both got ready by throwing and catching passes together." That chemistry clearly paid off; Lauren Grey at Pro Football Focus ranked Downs at #11 out of 33 wide receivers.
"Downs closed his season on a high note against the Jaguars, recording a season-high in catches (10), tying a season-high in targets (12) and tallying his second-highest receiving total of the season (94 yards). Downs gained five first downs and made four catches of 10-plus yards, including an 18-yarder late in the fourth quarter.
The second-year receiver surpassed his rookie receiving total with 72 catches for 803 yards. He ranked eighth in passer rating when targeted against single coverage (139.1), catching 17 passes for 15 first downs and three touchdowns while tying for fifth in yards after the catch per reception (10.2).
Downs also graded well from the slot (82.2), ranking in the top five in targets (79), receiving yards (634), and first downs. He placed in the top 10 in explosive gains (13) and catches of 20-plus yards (eight) from the slot."
Despite having played less games in 2024 than in 2023, Downs had more receptions for more yards. His talent, which appears to be improving each year, was a big help for the Colts, particularly with Michael Pittman, Jr. playing with a fractured back.
And though Downs has good chemistry with Richardson, he was still just as reliable with Joe Flacco under center, a good sign for a Colts' offense in turmoil. Pittman will likely be healthy by next season, and whatever the Colts decide to do at quarterback, the trio of Pittman, Downs, and Alec Pierce will be a deadly one for sure.