Josh Downs missed the first two weeks of the season with a high ankle sprain. Since then, he’s played in every game. That streak is now in jeopardy as we head into Week 13. What is the latest on the Indianapolis Colts WR’s injury status?
What Is Josh Downs’ Injury?
Downs fell awkwardly on his shoulder last week, potentially spraining his AC joint. This is an injury players can try and play through, but it really comes down to the combination of the severity of the injury and pain tolerance. Downs briefly returned to the game after hurting his shoulder but was unable to continue.
Will Downs Play in Week 13?
Downs doesn’t seem overly concerned about his shoulder. However, as he correctly points out, the decision is not up to him. The team has opted to play it safe and ruled Downs out for the Colts’ Week 13 game against the New England Patriots.
The description of Downs as week-to-week suggests he is no lock to return in Week 14.
#Colts WR Josh Downs on his right shoulder and being ruled out of Sunday’s game:
“It’s fine. Just coaches’ decision. Shane (Steichen) and the trainers talk about it and see what’s the best for the team.”
Not in the video, but Downs confirmed that he is week-to-week. pic.twitter.com/MBOKPJ28DX
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid)
The nature of an AC joint sprain is such that Downs could probably have played this week. However, all it would take is one awkward fall on the shoulder and he’d be right back to Square 1. The team is doing the right thing by holding him out. Hopefully, it will only be a one-week absence for the talented young receiver.
Fantasy Implications of Downs’ Week 13 Status
Michael Pittman Jr. may be listed as the Colts’ WR1, but all season, Downs has been the main guy. Whether it was Joe Flacco or Anthony Richardson at quarterback, Downs has consistently been the most reliable option.
Without Downs, expect more targets to go in Pittman’s direction. As for who steps up, Alec Pierce would be the next guy, but he’s dealing with a foot issue of his own. With Ashton Dulin also already ruled out, the Colts could be pretty thin at wide receiver. This could lead to rookie Adonai Mitchell seeing his largest snap share of the season.
SEE MORE: NFL Injury Report
Mitchell has been inconsistent in his debut NFL season but does possess a big-play upside. Look for Richardson to at least take a shot or two deep to the rookie.
Given the opponent and the injuries at wide receiver, we could see the Colts lean heavily on Jonathan Taylor. The Patriots have been average against the run but are allowing just 81.7 rushing yards per game over their last three. If this leads to Taylor being stymied, Richardson may have no choice but to air it out. Or, perhaps he will take off himself. Regardless, the only trustworthy fantasy football options are Taylor and Pittman.