Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs may be headed for the most awe-inspiring season of his NFL career.
PFF named Downs the Colts’ breakout candidate for the 2026 season, motioning toward an expanded opportunity following the offseason trade of Michael Pittman Jr. to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
“Michael Pittman’s departure should create more opportunities for Josh Downs in a contract year,” PFF’s Gordon McGuinness wrote.
Downs has surpassed 500 receiving yards in each of his first three seasons and has dropped only 4.3% of his catchable targets during that span, according to PFF.
His most productive campaign came in 2024, when he caught 72 passes for 803 yards and five touchdowns. PFF credited him with 2.20 yards per route run that season.
His production dipped to 58 receptions for 566 yards and four touchdowns in 2025. The Colts, nonetheless, have already indicated they want Downs more involved.
General manager Chris Ballard said in March that giving Downs additional opportunities could allow Indianapolis to see more of the “special stuff” he has shown previously. Head coach Shane Steichen also discussed giving the 5-foot-9 receiver more snaps outside after Pittman’s departure.
The receiving corps has changed recently too.
Indianapolis reportedly agreed to a one-year deal with six-time Pro Bowler Keenan Allen, adding an experienced, touchdown-magnet to a group that features Alec Pierce as well.
After taking a statistical step backward last season, PFF believes the opportunity is there for the fourth-year receiver to rebound in a significant way.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts WR Josh Downs named breakout candidate for 2026