All Tar Heels

Former UNC Football Standout Soars Again for Colts

As a rookie, UNC football alum Josh Downs is on pace for almost 1,000 receiving yards.

Matt Giles

Former UNC football wide receiver Josh Downs (Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports)
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Josh Downs, who amassed over 200 receptions for almost 2,500 yards as a UNC football wide receiver (2020-22) before going No. 79 overall at the 2023 NFL Draft, has caught on fast with the Indianapolis Colts.

On Sunday, the 22-year-old out of North Gwinnett (Ga.) totaled five receptions for a career-high 125 yards (his first game with over 100 yards).

His top highlight was finding the end zone on what the Colts' social media team dubbed a "59-yard stroll" down the right sideline early in the first quarter of the squad's eventual 39-38 home loss to the Cleveland Browns. It was his second touchdown in the NFL (his first came last week), worthy of this shimmying celebration he displayed:

In light of his latest Sunday performance, including being targeted a team-high six times, Downs drew the following high praise from NFL Rookie Watch on social media:

"Josh Downs just put up a LEGACY game against the Cleveland Browns...Downs is now up to 33 receptions for 401 yards on the season and is on pace for NEARLY 1,000 receiving yards. The Colts have found their next TY Hilton in their rookie WR."

Only 29 NFL receivers in history have surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in their rookie campaigns.

With more outings like his last, Josh Downs, who is the nephew of legendary UNC football defensive back Dre' Bly and son of a former six-year NFL running back in NC State product Gary Downs, could quickly become a legitimate contender for NFL Rookie of the Year.

He's yet to finish a contest with fewer than three receptions. And he's had only one officially recorded drop, which came in Week 1.

Downs and the Colts next host the New Orleans Saints at 1 p.m. ET Sunday.

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, Duke Blue Devils on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining UNC on SI in 2023, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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