Josh Downs DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs (undisclosed) and tight end Drew Ogletree (undisclosed) both miss Wednesday's voluntary practice with soft-tissue injuries. Downs has had his share of injuries already through two NFL seasons, so although it's early in the offseason, his health is worth watching closely the closer we get to training camp and the preseason. The 23-year-old former third-rounder (79th overall) in 2023 out of North Carolina took a small step forward in 2024 with a 72-803-5 line on 107 targets over 14 games (eight starts). A lot of his production last year came with veteran quarterback Joe Flacco under center, and his 5-foot-9, 171-pound frame limits his overall upside. Downs' 2025 fantasy value will likely hinge on who wins the Colts' QB competition between Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones.

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs caught 10 of his 13 targets for 94 yards during Sunday's Week 18 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Colts' passing attack has seen a significant boost ever since quarterback Joe Flacco took over for the injured Anthony Richardson (back), but Downs truly took his productivity to the next level during Sunday's season finale. He finishes the 2024 campaign with 72 catches, 803 yards, and five touchdowns. Each of these three marks represented season-highs, topping the totals he delivered as a rookie last year. Downs has firmly established himself as an appealing 1B option with the Colts, pairing nicely alongside their 1A receiver, Michael Pittman Jr. The UNC product will rank as a high-end WR3 when 2025 fantasy football drafts kick off next summer, and he has even greater appeal in dynasty leagues.

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs closed out the season on a high note, catching 10 of 13 targets for 94 yards, although he was unable to find the end zone in the 26-23 overtime win over the Jaguars. The 23-year-old missed three games this season due to injury but still managed to set new career highs in catches (72), yards (803), and touchdowns (5). Inconsistent and ineffective quarterback play seemed to hold back all of the Colts receivers this season, with none truly separating themselves as a true No. 1. Alec Pierce ended up leading the team in yards (824) and touchdowns (7), but he did it on only 37 receptions, while Michael Pittman Jr.'s numbers were nearly identical to Downs' with 69 catches and 808 yards. Anthony Richardson's play will likely depress Downs' value in 2025 fantasy drafts, but that could make him (and Pittman Jr.) possible values if the offense can improve in 2025.