The Indianapolis Colts have had an interesting offseason, reaching new deals for Daniel Jones and Alec Pierce, but that has meant some players have had to be moved on.
One was receiver Michael Pittman Jr., who is now with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
That takes away the one-two punch the Colts had last season, and it leaves many wondering who will step up in the absence of Pittman Jr.
Well, for general manager Chris Ballard, the Colts already have someone who can take the next step and become a good weapon: Josh Downs.
"I think getting lost in this a little bit is ... Josh Downs," Ballard said via ESPN. "I think Josh Downs is freaking good. I do. I've always thought he's good. I think allowing him some more opportunities, we're going to see some of the special stuff you've seen in the past, but more."
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Can Downs become WR2?
Well, going by Ballard's comments, that is going to be the hope.
Entering his fourth year, Downs has been a steady source of production, notching at least 560 yards in each season.
But 2025 was his "worst" year, posting 566 yards and 4 TDs from 58 receptions.
However, with Pittman Jr. now gone, the chance for Downs to get more snaps and the increased chance of making plays, the expectation, it seems from Ballard at least, is that Josh will be far more productive in 2026.
The Colts made several key roster decisions this offseason, and Downs could be the biggest beneficiary of them.
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