Colts HC Shane Steichen called WR Josh Downs "a tremendous football player" and said he's "trying to find different ways to get him the ball." Boosting Downs' playing time would be a good place to start. WR Michael Pittman's departure leaves behind a big opportunity.
What They're Saying
Steichen on Downs: “I'm excited for him going into this season. ... Getting him involved any way we can, whether it’s in 12 personnel, obviously he plays a lot in the slot in 11 personnel."
2026 Fantasy Football Impact: '12' Personnel Could Unlock Upside
Playing time has been Downs' biggest bugaboo through three NFL seasons. Here are his route rates and their ranks among all WRs:
| Route Rate | Rank | |
| 2023 | 68.3% | 62nd |
| 2024 | 72.9% | 58th |
| 2025 | 62.8% | 72nd |
Downs has been efficient on a per-route basis, but he needs more playing time to become a reliable fantasy option. Pittman's departure frees up 505 routes (84.0%) and 108 targets (19.7%) from last season.
Pittman's departure frees up 505 routes (84.0%) and 108 targets (19.7%) from last season.
Steichen's note on Downs playing in '12' personnel (1 RB, 2 TEs, 2 WRs) is particularly intriguing. Over the last three seasons, Downs has totaled 33 routes and 12 targets from '12' personnel.
If he captures more of those snaps, Downs could emerge as a viable fantasy starter in managed leagues.
For now, Downs checks in as a fair value at his 10th-round ADP.
