Credit: AP/Darron Cummings
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs suffered an ankle injury during practice on Wednesday morning, requiring assistance from two team staff members to leave the field. He was later taken to the locker room on a cart.
While the Colts have not released specific details about the injury, a report from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler revealed that Downs sustained a high ankle sprain.
Downs, who is entering his second NFL season, is a key player for the Colts’ offense. Last season, he recorded 68 receptions for 771 yards, ranking second on the team in both categories.
Coach Steichen Criticizes Tackle
The injury was particularly frustrating because it might have been avoidable. Downs was tackled from behind by safety Nick Cross as he was heading out of bounds after catching a short pass from quarterback Anthony Richardson. The incident occurred during a 7-on-7 drill, a setting where physical contact is generally discouraged.
Head coach Shane Steichen expressed his displeasure with the tackle, saying, “We’ve got to be smart. We’re competing like crazy, but we’ve got to stay off the ground, and we can’t go down—bottom line.”
Steichen reprimanded Cross on the field immediately after the play, even as the medical staff was attending to Downs.
After practice, Cross spoke to reporters, saying, “We’re competing, playing football. Josh is my guy. I love him to death.”
Impact on Colts’ Wide Receiver Lineup
If this injury sidelines Downs for an extended period, it could have significant implications for the Colts’ wide receiver lineup. Downs is currently the team’s No. 2 receiver behind Michael Pittman Jr. The competition for the No. 3 spot, which includes veteran Alec Pierce and rookie Adonai Mitchell, may intensify. Both players have been alternating with the starting offense, and coaches have noted their progress in recent practices, expecting both to contribute to the team’s offensive efforts.
This report used information from ESPN.
