The UNC football program is just five days away from its season opener of the 2022 season. Unlike last year, the expectations are lowered a bit, partially due to some of the key players the Tar Heels lost. But, one player they didn’t lose is [autotag]Josh Downs[/autotag], one of the most electric players in the country.
Downs has received numerous preseason awards including being named to multiple watch lists as well as All-American teams. He’s also been labeled a prospect that could hear his name called in the first round of April’s 2023 NFL draft.
On Monday, he was named as an AP Preseason Second-Team All-American. The other wide receivers on the Second Team were Xavier Worthy (Texas) and A.T. Perry (Wake Forest).
In 2021, Downs had a record-setting season for the Tar Heels. He had a single-season program-record 101 receptions and 1,355 receiving yards, both records. He also scored a touchdown in eight-straight games, one short of the school record. He led the ACC and ranked fifth nationally in receptions and was second in the league and 11th nationally in receiving yards.
Despite not having Sam Howell under center this season, Downs is set to have another very good season for the Tar Heels. On Monday, redshirt freshman Drake Maye was named the starting quarterback for UNC’s season opener.
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