The state’s top receiver in the class of 2028 will always be a concern for defenses, and that concern should only grow in the playoffs. Downs has been a huge part of the Fighting Saints’ receiving game so far, reeling in disgusting head-top catches in several games this season. He’s got the top-end speed to separate from DBs, and the insane athleticism to reel in passes, almost regardless of where they’re thrown. Even when the ball doesn’t come his way, he’s hyper-physical, often blocking defenders clear out of frame or pancaking them. He’s seen some time on the defensive side of the ball as well this season, where his athleticism and physicality have allowed him to strap several WR1s. He’s a threat regardless of where he plays, and should be a driving factor for the Saints come Tuesday.

The Saints’ receiving corps had its work cut out for it on Friday night as Robbinsdale Cooper returned every starting member of their secondary from last season. But once Downs got started, there wasn’t a lot of slowing down from the highly sought-after sophomore. Early in the second half, Downs broke off deep on a 40-yard fade ball, clearing the DB by a significant margin to put the Saints up for the first time all game. His athleticism and route running make him a dangerous threat across the field. This looks to be the start of Downs’ breakout season.

One of the most dynamic athletes in his class, Downs caught 26 balls for just short of 200 yards and a TD as a freshman wideout, but looks to truly break out into his own during his sophomore campaign. His athleticism is insane, especially for a 2028 athlete. He possesses the speed the beat kids over the top, and the vertical ability to contest high passes. Downs can create an immense amount of separation from DBs almost instantly, and he’s a massive problem for defenses once he gets loose in space. He looks due for a massive year, and I would get on the hype train sooner rather than later.