The Indianapolis Colts have been quietly building a dynamic offense over the past few seasons. With quarterback Anthony Richardson taking strides in his development, attention is naturally turning to the weapons around him — especially the wide receivers. As we head into the 2025 NFL season, how does the Colts’ receiving corps stack up against the rest of the league?
The centerpiece of the Colts’ wideout group is Michael Pittman Jr., who re-signed with the team on a lucrative deal earlier this offseason. Pittman has been a consistent presence since being drafted in 2020, and in 2024, he posted over 1,200 receiving yards with 8 touchdowns. He’s a true WR1 with size, route-running polish, and toughness across the middle.
Beyond Pittman, Josh Downs emerged as a major contributor in 2024. The second-year slot receiver became a favorite target for Richardson, showing excellent separation skills and clutch hands. Downs adds versatility and agility, making him a perfect complement to Pittman’s more physical style.
Then there’s Adonai Mitchell, the 2024 second-round pick out of Texas. Mitchell brings explosive athleticism and big-play potential. After a promising rookie season, he’s expected to take a big leap in 2025, potentially giving the Colts a true vertical threat they’ve lacked in recent years.
The tight end group also contributes to the passing attack, with Jelani Woods and Kylen Granson offering different skill sets. Woods, with his 6’7″ frame, is a red-zone mismatch, while Granson can operate effectively on short and intermediate routes. Though not elite, this tight end duo is solid enough to support a diversified passing game.
When compared to other AFC South teams, the Colts arguably boast the most balanced receiver group. The Jaguars have Calvin Ridley and Christian Kirk, but depth is a concern. The Titans drafted Bru McCoy, but still lack proven weapons outside of DeAndre Hopkins. Meanwhile, the Texans’ group is fast and young, led by Tank Dell and Nico Collins, but consistency remains a question.
League-wide, however, the Colts’ group may not yet be among the elite. Teams like the Bengals (Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins), Eagles (A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith), and 49ers (Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk) feature multiple Pro Bowl-caliber talents. The Colts have potential, but only Pittman has reached that top tier so far.
What does elevate the Colts’ receiving corps is how well the pieces fit together. There’s a clear pecking order, and each receiver plays a defined role: Pittman is the possession X, Downs works the slot, and Mitchell stretches the field. This balance makes them more dangerous collectively, even if they don’t have multiple All-Pros.
Richardson’s progression will play a massive role in how this group is viewed by season’s end. If he continues to refine his accuracy and decision-making, this trio could put up serious numbers. With Shane Steichen calling plays, the offense should stay innovative and receiver-friendly.
In terms of overall ranking, the Colts’ receiving corps likely sits between 10th and 14th in the league entering the 2025 season. They’re better than average, with youth, upside, and solid production, but still behind the elite units that have more star power or veteran depth.
If Mitchell breaks out and Downs continues ascending, this group could easily crack the top 8 by the end of the season. For now, Colts fans should feel optimistic — they may not have the NFL’s best receiving corps yet, but they’re on a fast track to becoming one of its most complete and dangerous.
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