Josh Downs has been one of the best surprises for the Indianapolis Colts this season. Everyone was excited about what Downs could be in this league, but not many expected that Downs would immediately be as productive as he has been for the Colts. Downs quickly emerged as Indy’s No. 2 receiver and he’ll finish his rookie season with a franchise record.
On Saturday night against the Houston Texans, Downs caught a pass late in the second quarter and it took him to 66 receptions for the season. That catch set a new franchise record for receptions by a rookie receiver. The record was previously held by Bill Brooks, who caught 65 passes during his rookie season in 1986.
There's a new #1 in the franchise record book. pic.twitter.com/zyQpuJvZtj
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) January 7, 2024
Josh Downs sets Colts record for receptions by a rookie
This is especially impressive when you consider all the great receivers that played for the franchise. Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison is now third on the list with 64 receptions. However, there is the fact that Downs played 17 games, while Brooks and Harrison played in just 16.
Regardless of games played, Josh Downs has been a great addition for the Colts this season. He entered Week 18 with 65 receptions for 723 yards and two touchdowns. That makes him Indy’s second-most productive receiver this season behind only Michael Pittman Jr. Downs is a big reason why the offense has been able to turn things around, which is why the Colts have a chance to make the postseason and possibly win the AFC South.