Ben Solak of ESPN selected his breakout candidate for each NFL team heading into the 2026 season. His pick for the Indianapolis Colts? Wide receiver Josh Downs.
“I’m not here to predict a full Jaxon Smith-Njigba explosion from Downs as he works his way into more of a hybrid role; Downs is much shorter and lighter than JSN,” Solak wrote. “But I do think Downs shares Smith-Njigba’s fluidity as a route runner, which should open him up for deeper targets as coach Shane Steichen manufactures free releases for him off the line.”
Downs was still a big part of the Colts’ offense in 2025, totaling 84 targets, but his opportunities and production dipped with the addition of tight end Tyler Warren.
However, Downs still remained an efficient target for Daniel Jones and was a go-to option in key situations.
That said, more opportunities will be coming Downs’ way this season following Michael Pittman’s departure, which is one of the reasons why Solak believes that Downs can break out in 2026.
With Pittman now in Pittsburgh, there are 110 targets from last season now up for grabs. Replicating Pittman’s production will be a group effort, but Downs figures to be a big part of that equation.
Solak also believes that Downs could see a boost in production if Shane Steichen utilizes him a bit differently, specifically, giving him more opportunities away from the line of scrimmage.
“Downs is 111th in air yards per target among 121 high-volume wide receivers since he entered the league in 2023,” Solak added. “If Steichen just gets him up to an average depth, Downs would be in line for a breakout year in production.”
Downs is currently set to enter the final year of his rookie deal.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: ESPN analyst highlights Colts’ breakout player for 2026 NFL season
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Paul Bretl, Colts Wire | USA TODAY Network
