The Indianapolis Colts just got good news on Michael Pittman Jr., who was cleared of a concussion. But fellow WR Josh Downs also left today’s game and has not returned. What happened to Downs in Week 9, and what is the rookie pass catcher’s latest injury status?
Josh Downs Injury Status
Downs suffered a knee injury during Thursday’s practice and banked limited sessions for the rest of the week. He entered Week 9 with a questionable tag but ultimately suited up.
It’s unclear if Downs took a hard hit to his knee, got tangled up, or simply aggravated his existing issue. But he wasn’t on the field for several offensive drives.
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The Colts eventually announced that Downs was questionable to return as he dealt with his knee injury. The FOX broadcast said Downs was being evaluated in the Indianapolis locker room.
Downs, whom the Colts selected in the second round of April’s draft, has quickly overtaken Alec Pierce to become Indy’s WR2 behind Pittman. He’s already posted five games with at least five receptions and four with at least 40 yards.
After Indianapolis’ win over the Carolina Panthers, Colts head coach Shane Steichen confirmed that Downs was not dealing with a new knee injury and instead irritated his existing issue.
Fantasy Fallout From Downs’ Injury
Downs hauled in his one target for 10 yards prior to getting shaken up. If Downs should miss any time in this game or the coming weeks, look for an expanded role for Pittman, Isaiah McKenzie, and Pierce in the Colts’ passing game. In particular, McKenzie should see more work in the slot while Downs is unavailable.
— PFN Fantasy Analyst Derek Tate