Josh Downs isn’t rushing the contract conversation, and he doesn’t sound like a player eager to force the issue before the season starts.
The Colts wideout is in the final year of his rookie deal and is on track to hit free agency in 2027, though he remains eligible for an extension at any point. Asked whether he’d want something done before the regular season, Downs kept it simple on “The Fan Morning Show.”
"I don't know. Whatever happens is going to happen," Downs said while appearing on 'The Fan Morning Show.'"
But I'm not like 'oh I need that now,' because I'd rather boost my own stock throughout the season. I feel like I can do a lot more, and I want that to show and see where that goes."
Downs still played a major role in Indianapolis’ offense in 2025, drawing 84 targets and emerging as a trusted option for Daniel Jones in key moments. But the volume and production weren’t quite as strong as they had been before.
With tight end Tyler Warren stepping into a bigger role, Downs’ chances dipped, and he finished with a career-low 58 catches for 566 yards and four touchdowns. He also averaged 9.8 yards per catch, according to PFF.
Even with that quieter statistical line, the setup around him suggests more opportunity is coming. Michael Pittman is now in Pittsburgh, leaving 110 targets from last season available, and the Colts will need a committee approach to replace that production. Downs is positioned to be a central piece of that plan.
And that’s why the timing matters. A strong season would put him in line for a bigger payday than if he were to lock in an extension now.
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