The 2023 NFL Draft is in the rearview mirror. There were 259 players drafted over the three-day event, including 102 over the first two days.
One of those players was North Carolina wide receiver Josh Downs. The former Tar Heel was a third-round pick by the Indianapolis Colts. He got drafted with the 79th overall pick as the 12th wide receiver off the board.
However, what can Colt fans and fantasy football players expect from Downs in the NFL?
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What Did Josh Downs Accomplish At UNC?
The former Tar Heel had a quiet freshman season, totaling only seven receptions for 119 receiving yards. Yet, he had three receiving touchdowns that year. More importantly, Downs broke out the following season.
Downs had 101 receptions for 1,335 receiving yards and eight touchdowns in 2021. The 101 receptions and 1,325 receiving yards were a career-high. Furthermore, he finished first in the ACC in receptions, second in receiving yards, and first in touchdowns that year.
Meanwhile, Downs had another outstanding year in 2022. The former Tar Heel had 94 receptions for 1,029 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns. Not only were the 11 touchdowns a career-high, but Downs also finished second in the ACC and seventh in the country in that category.
Is Josh Downs A Good Fit For The Colts?
While the former Tar Heel was the 12th wide receiver drafted this year, Downs couldn’t care less. He is excited to be in the NFL and ready to get to work.
The Colts have spent multiple Day 2 draft picks on wide receivers over the past few years. They used a second-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft on Alec Pierce. Indianapolis also spent a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft on Michael Pittman Jr.
Meanwhile, the team signed Isaiah McKenzie in free agency to take over as the starting slot receiver. However, Downs will have that role sooner than later. The former Tar Heel can make plays all over the field. Furthermore, he can make plays vertically downfield and after the catch.
Indianapolis has their quarterback of the future after their drafted Anthony Richardson. While he will have to compete with Pittman and Pierce for targets, Downs has a bright future ahead of him.
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