One Indianapolis Colts wide receiver was named a fantasy football sleeper heading into the 2026 NFL season by Pro Football Focus.
Nathan Jahnke recently identified three “sleepers” who are flying under the radar but could give your fantasy football team a boost this year. Among those listed was the Colts’ Josh Downs.
“Downs finished 44th in fantasy points last season, but the bump in snaps and targets should be enough to make him a top-36 option,” wrote Jahnke. “He’s currently getting drafted as if he’ll take a step backward, making him a nice late-round value.”
Downs’ overall production went down last season — likely a result of Tyler Warren being added to the mix — but he still remained efficient and effective when targeted.
Downs caught nearly 70% of his passes and kept the chains moving, with 36 of his 58 receptions picking up first downs. Jahnke also noted that since entering the NFL in 2023, Downs ranks 25th among all wideouts in PFF grade, and his 1.74 yards per route run also puts him in the top 30.
That said, more opportunities should be coming Downs’ way this season with Michael Pittman in Pittsburgh. Last year, Pittman was targeted 110 times, and while it will take a group effort to replace that production, Downs figures to be a big part of that equation.
The Colts continue to remain extremely bullish on Downs and what he can do in this offense.
“I think Josh Downs is freaking good,” GM Chris Ballard said earlier this offseason, via ESPN. “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.”
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts player listed among fantasy football ‘sleepers’ for 2026 NFL season
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
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By Paul Bretl, Colts Wire | USA TODAY Network
