Indianapolis Colts wideout Josh Downs was assisted off the practice field on Wednesday after suffering an ankle injury. He was unable to put weight on his lower leg following a tackle by safety Nick Cross during 7-on-7 drills.
ESPN reported that Downs sustained a high ankle sprain and will be out for approximately a month. The 2023 third-round pick, who turns 23 next week, had a strong rookie season with 68 receptions for 771 yards and two touchdowns in 17 games (nine starts).
Colts coach Shane Steichen expressed disappointment over the injury and mentioned that Downs will undergo immediate testing. “We need to be smart,” Steichen said. “We’re competing hard, but we must avoid injuries.” Cross acknowledged the incident as part of training camp’s competitive nature, expressing his support for Downs.
“We’re playing football and competing. Josh is my guy, and I care about him a lot,” Cross said. Downs was expected to be a starter alongside two-time 1,000-yard receiver Michael Pittman Jr. and either rookie Adonai Mitchell or Alec Pierce. The Colts will begin their preseason on Sunday against the Denver Broncos.
