{
  "id": 14650548,
  "title": "Everybody knows about Josh Downs. That's the Colts' problem",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/15/everybody-knows-about-josh-downs-thats-the-colts-problem",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-15T08:25:08.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/everybody-knows-josh-downs-thats-082508573.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Josh Downs is the Colts' top third-down option, yet every defensive unit knows it. When quarterback Daniel Jones sees pressure on third down, he instinctively looks for Downs. However, he has found success when defenses have brought an extra defender to cover him. Downs caught six passes for 63 yards in the last two weeks against Washington and Pittsburgh, averaging six catches for 74.5 yards in the games prior. NFL defenses have taken notice, as Indianapolis quarterback Daniel Jones said the team is \"certainly aware of him, particularly on third down.\" With Alec Pierce injured, Downs has become the primary target. The extra attention has made it difficult for other players to generate separation, but Downs remains resilient. He acknowledged defenses are doubling him, but he believes they'll have to find another option if he's covered. Colts coach Shane Steichen emphasized the need to find open spaces for their receivers, particularly Downs, to continue their offensive success.",
  "summary": "With Alec Pierce out, defenses are doubling Josh Downs on third down. The Colts must make them pay by getting other receivers open.",
  "key_points": [
    "Josh Downs is Colts' top third-down option.",
    "Defenses aware of Downs, especially on third down.",
    "Downs resilient despite extra attention, seeks open spaces."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Yahoo Sports",
        "title": "Everybody knows about Josh Downs. That's the Colts' problem",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/15/everybody-knows-about-josh-downs-thats-the-colts-problem-14650549",
        "published": "2026-10-15T08:25:08.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}