Josh Downs is a Smash Play in 2026

The Colts didn't take a pass-catcher until Round 7 of the NFL Draft.

They traded away Michael Pittman. The only WRs they added this offseason were free agent Nick Westbrook and 7th-round WR Deion Burks.

That tells you everything you need to know about how Indianapolis views Josh Downs.

He's their guy.

In 2-WR sets, Downs is locked in as a starter with a massive target share. No more competing with Pittman for looks. No more being the third option. He's the primary pass-catcher in an offense with a franchise quarterback.

Downs showed flashes in 2025. He was efficient when targeted, ran crisp routes, and consistently won at the intermediate level. The volume just wasn't there because the target tree was crowded.

That problem is solved now.

The Colts' offense under Shane Steichen has historically fed its slot receivers. Downs plays 80%+ of his snaps from the slot. The scheme fit is perfect.

Here's the kicker: his ADP hasn't caught up yet. The market is still pricing in the 2025 version of the Colts' WR room, not the 2026 version. That lag is your edge.

Downs is a WR2 with WR1 upside at a WR3 price. That's one of the best values in all of fantasy.

– Alex