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Colts' Josh Downs Enters Contract Year Focused on Play as Pittman Trade Opens Targets

He says he will not chase a payday, signaling a bet that performance will drive his next deal.

Overview

  • Downs said at a Wednesday press conference that he is following Jonathan Taylor’s advice to ignore contract chatter and just play.
  • He expects more targets in 2026 after Indianapolis traded Michael Pittman to the Steelers, leaving Downs and Alec Pierce as Daniel Jones’ top wideouts.
  • General manager Chris Ballard praised Downs as “freaking good” and said expanded chances should unlock more of his skill.
  • His production fell in 2025 to 566 receiving yards as rookie tight end Tyler Warren drew 106 targets, after a 2024 high of 803 yards and five touchdowns.
  • Across three seasons he has 198 catches for 2,140 yards and 11 scores, and a strong year could position him for a major deal in free agency or with the Colts.