The Indianapolis Colts started their 2023 NFL Draft with three very exciting picks: quarterback Anthony Richardson, cornerback JuJu Brents, and receiver Josh Downs. Of course, Richardson has been dominating the headlines so far. That’s expected, because he’s a quarterback and was selected fourth overall. However, Brents and Downs not being able to really take the field hasn’t helped.
Brents missed all of the offseason program with a wrist injury, and Downs participated in rookie minicamp, but was sidelined through OTAs and mandatory minicamp with a knee issue. Now, with training camp for the Colts starting on Tuesday, July 25, everyone’s curious to know which Indianapolis players are going to be ready to go.
Fortunately, Downs will be ready to hit the field when Indy returns on Tuesday. In a recent interview with The Athletic’s James Boyd, Downs explained that he’s 100% and will be ready to compete once camp starts in a couple of days.
Josh Downs will be ready for Colts camp
This is certainly exciting news, because many people feel that Downs could be a big time contributor from day one. Legendary receiver, and current Indianapolis wide receivers coach, Reggie Wayne, has been showering Downs with compliments since the team drafted him. Steve Smith, another legendary receiver, also thinks highly of Downs. His skill set is well respected by legends.
It’s just a matter of Downs adjusting to the NFL and learning Shane Steichen’s offense. If he can pick things up quickly, he should be the perfect WR3 alongside Michael Pittman Jr. and Alec Pierce. Downs will, of course, have to compete with veterans Isaiah McKenzie and Ashton Dulin for the third receiver spot.
With these intriguing receiver options, and an emerging tight end room, rookie QB Anthony Richardson will have some solid weapons to lean on as he also develops. It’ll be fun to see how a healthy Josh Downs can establish himself in the Colts offense throughout training camp.