Anthony Richardson and former Tar Heel Josh Downs show chemistry
North Carolina Tar Heels wide receiver Josh Downs, now with the Indianapolis Colts, is having a fantastic training camp that will forecast a big jump from his rookie to sophomore season.
During his three seasons at UNC, Downs surpassed 2,400 yards including a sophomore season with 101 receptions and 1,335 yards. He had his most touchdowns in his junior, and last, season in Chapel Hill. He finished his collegiate career with 94 catches for 1,029 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Downs was selected as the No. 79 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. He was a part of the third round before fellow wide receiver Antoine Green who was drafted in the seventh round.
During his rookie season, Downs had 68 receptions for 771 yards and two touchdowns in 17 appearances. It is of note to keep in mind that he only played half of the season with fellow rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson from Florida. The rest was spent with Gardner Minshew as the starter.
#Colts QB Anthony Richardson on his chemistry with WR Josh Downs, which is now a bit more unspoken as they enter Year 2:
“With the route, I know we got rules and steps to run it a certain way. But just get open. … I’m gonna get you the ball. I tell that to all the receivers.” pic.twitter.com/pXQqiPNW39— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) August 2, 2024
According to Colts.com writer JJ Stankevitz, Downs has been Richardson's favorite target during the Colts' training camp this season.
Even head coach Shane Steichen has incredibly high praise for the duo.
You can see those guys are always talking after plays. Obviously, in between periods they're back there talking. I think that communication piece is really good and once guys keep playing more and more and more together – I mean, I've been around some guys that have played 16 years together and they just kind of look at each other and give a wink and it's like, 'We know what we're doing.' So, you get to that level, it's pretty special.
The sky is the limit for Downs in his second year, but he continues to prove that North Carolina can produce high-level NFL talent.
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This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire : Anthony Richardson and former Tar Heel Josh Downs show chemistry
