Report: Colts’ Josh Downs plans to play vs. Panthers

Josh Downs is expected to play against the Panthers.

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs is questionable on the injury report but is pushing to play Sunday against the Carolina Panthers, per Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Downs popped up on the injury report Thursday after sustaining a knee injury during practice. He was able to log a limited practice Friday and was given the questionable tag on the final injury report.

Schefter reported that Downs is “tracking to play” and that he will go through a pregame workout to see how he feels. Even though he will be less than fully healthy—most players are at this point in the season—Downs is reportedly planning to play.

Downs has been an integral part of the passing game over the first half of the season. He currently ranks second on the team in targets (56), receptions (40), and yards (473). Among all rookie wideouts, he currently ranks third in receiving yards behind Puka Nacua (795) and Jordan Addison (482).

Even if Downs is less than 100%, he can still be a reliable short-area target for Gardner Minshew while Michael Pittman Jr. will continue to see the bulk of the targets in the passing game.

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