As the Indianapolis Colts prepare to put their season on the line, they hope to see the return of one of te most consistent players on the offensive side of the ball.
After suffering a shoulder injury late in the Week 12 loss against the Detroit Lions, wide receiver Josh Downs was inactive the following week in the win over the New England Patriots.
The Colts then had their bye week, which gave the second-year wideout some extra time to heal.
Now, the Colts are on the road for a crucial matchup against the Denver Broncos, one that is likely to determine which team gets in as the final wild-card team in the AFC playoff race.
The shifty slot receiver was officially listed as questionable on the team’s injury report for Week 15. Here’s the latest injury update on Downs entering Sunday:
Josh Downs injury update
It seems that extra time off helped Downs get ready for the crucial matchup in Denver. The North Carolina product is reportedly expected to play, per Adam Schefter of ESPN.
Down 21-6 against the Lions early in the fourth quarter, Downs took a tap pass from Richardson for seven yards. As he was tackled by Lions linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez, Downs was in immediate pain.
Downs’ ability to win quickly from the slot while making plays downfield is a vital component of the passing game.
Before the shoulder injury, Downs had been enjoying a strong second campaign in the NFL. In 10 games (six starts), Downs recorded 53 receptions for 594 yards and four touchdowns on 78 targets.
As the Colts prepare for one of the NFL’s toughest defenses, it seems they will have the top pass-catcher available.
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