Josh Downs Is Leaving The Slot And Nobody In The League Is Ready For What Comes Next

Josh Downs is about to become a whole different beast for the Indianapolis Colts this season. Expect not just more opportunities, but a complete overhaul in how Shane Steichen’s offense plans to unleash him.

The Slot No More: Downs Heads Outside

For his first three NFL seasons, Downs was a slot fixture. But in 2026, that’s history. With WR3 uncertainty and the Colts’ heavy use of two-tight-end sets, Downs is set for way more snaps lined up outside. ESPN’s Ben Solak isn’t just speculating, he’s projecting Downs’ slot rate to plummet from near league-leading numbers into the 62-63% range, like Ladd McConkey or Wan’Dale Robinson. Solak sees Steichen experimenting with more bunch and stack sets, giving Downs crucial free releases off the line from outside alignments. This is a game-changer! And forget the short-yardage label; Solak also points out Downs has never topped an 8.0 average air yard per target in his career. Guess what? That’s heading closer to 9.0 this year. Get ready for deep shots.

Ballard & Steichen Are All In

This isn’t just a rumor. Head Coach Shane Steichen made getting Downs those outside reps a priority during OTAs and training camp, confirming the team believes he can absolutely fill that role. More snaps outside means more ways for Downs to impact the game, specifically running intermediate and downfield routes. Look, nobody expects one guy to replace Michael Pittman’s production alone. But Downs, alongside Alec Pierce and Tyler Warren, will absolutely shoulder that workload. Colts GM Chris Ballard dropped a truth bomb, too. “I think getting lost in this a little bit is … Josh Downs,” Ballard told ESPN’s Stephen Holder. “I think Josh Downs is freaking good. I do. I’ve always thought he’s good. I think allowing him some more opportunities, we’re going to see some of the special stuff you’ve seen in the past, but more.” That’s 27 words that tell you everything.

More targets, a chance to truly showcase a well-rounded skill set, and a team that believes in him? Downs isn’t just getting more opportunities; he’s getting a massive platform to prove he’s a star. This season is going to be wild!

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Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.