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Former UNC Football Star Suffers Untimely Injury in Indy

Following an ideal rookie year in Indianapolis, UNC football pro Josh Downs faces a significant setback ahead of his second NFL campaign.

Matt Giles

Former UNC football wide receiver Josh Downs
Former UNC football wide receiver Josh Downs / Michelle Pemberton/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK
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Josh Downs amassed almost 2,500 yards and two dozen touchdowns through the air as a three-year UNC football standout wideout. The Georgia native heard his name in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft and exceeded the Indianapolis Colts' expectations by hauling in 68 receptions for 771 yards and two scores as a 22-year-old rookie.

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And the 5-foot-10, 175-pound speedster has been looking forward to building on that highly encouraging early professional success beginning with the team's season opener at home against the Houston Texans on Sept. 8.

Now, though, just a few days from celebrating his 23rd birthday, Downs is reportedly out of commission for an estimated 4-6 weeks due to a high ankle sprain he suffered during Indianapolis' 7-on-7 practice action on Wednesday.

Indianapolis Colts On SI's Jake Arthur detailed how it happened:

"During an early session of 7-on-7s, quarterback Anthony Richardson hit slot receiver Josh Downs on a short out route toward the left side. Safety Nick Cross had been supplying coverage and pulled Downs to the ground at the sideline, leaving the second-year receiver in clearly visible pain. After being tended to by trainers, Downs was all but carried off the field and into the medical tent..."

Based on the recovery timeline, it seems unlikely Downs will be 100 percent by Week 1.

He's the only UNC football alum on the Colts' roster.

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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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