UNC Football: Josh Downs drafted by Indianapolis Colts

Former UNC football standout Josh Downs is ready to begin his professional career, as he’s been selected in the NFL Draft by the

With the 79th pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts select…

Josh Downs… wide receiver from the University of North Carolina.

The former UNC football star wide receiver is ready to take his talents to the next level, as he’ll begin his professional career with the Indianapolis Colts.

Downs slipped into the third round, and surprisingly later than we all anticipated. A good amount of wide receivers came off the board before the former Tar Heel, but he ultimately ends up being a day-two pick just as he was projected to be.

The Suwanee, Georgia native had an impressive career in Chapel Hill, as he became the No. 1 option in the passing game for both Sam Howell and Drake Maye.

Downs didn’t see the field much as a true freshman but had a breakout game in the Capital One Orange Bowl against Texas A&M. His four catches, 91 yards, and two-score performance showed that Downs was on the verge of becoming a legitimate weapon for the Tar Heels offense.

As a sophomore, Downs connected with Howell (a lot), as he recorded 101 catches for 1,335 yards and eight touchdowns. Even while dealing with various injuries as a junior, Downs’ production was still at an elite level, as he finished his final season as a Tar Heel with 94 catches for 1,029 yards and 11 scores.

Now, the Chapel Hill chapter officially comes to a close, as Downs looks to make an impact in Indianapolis to start his professional career. He’ll have the opportunity to work with No. 4 overall pick Anthony Richardson, as the duo hopes to play a big role in the rebuild of the organization.

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