Concerning Update on Rookie Wide Receiver’s Injuries Received by the Colts

Josh Downs has emerged as one of the Indianapolis Colts’ biggest bright stars for the 2023 NFL season. Many people regarded the pick, which came up as the No. 79 overall pick in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, as a significant steal. It has shown to be absolutely true for Indianapolis.

Downs has already shown glimpses of his future greatness in the first eight games of his NFL career. With 40 receptions, he has 473 yards and two touchdowns. Even before his season-ending shoulder injury, Downs was a favorite target for both Anthony Richardson and, more recently, Gardner Minshew.

Sadly, Downs’ availability for the Colts’ Week 9 game against the Carolina Panthers remains uncertain.

What’s Next For The Colts If Josh Downs Can’t Play?

The Colts’ greatest area of vulnerability through the first eight games of the season has been at wide receiver. Arguably, Downs has been their most reliable and effective target. If he can’t give it a shot, that doesn’t look good for them in Week 9.

In the event that he must miss the Colts’ game against the Panthers, their wide receivers would be Michael Pittman Jr., Alec Pierce, Isaiah McKenzie, and Juwann Winfree. They would probably add someone to the active roster, but an opponent’s defense isn’t really alarmed by those alternatives besides Pittman.

If Downs is unable to play, Gardner Minshew will have his work cut out for him. Even though the Colts appear to be the superior team on paper, playing without key contributors against a young club that is eager to succeed might be risky.

The Colts have, however, seen a significant improvement in their rushing game. In addition to Zack Moss solidifying his role as a key member of the offense, Jonathan Taylor is back and appears to be his former self. Indianapolis’ ground game ought to be able to handle a lot more weight if they are having trouble moving the ball through the air.

When the game rolls around, Shane Steichen and company can only hope to find out how Downs is feeling. The Colts will need to make some adjustments to their game plan if he is unable to play. Hopefully, he can go out on the field.

Make sure to watch CBS at 4:05 p.m. EST to witness the Colts take on the Panthers in Carolina.