Josh Downs is focused on the 2026 Colts-Cowboys date that could set up a frequent “head-to-head” matchup with his younger brother Caleb.
A key date on the 2026 NFL calendar is already on Josh Downs’ mind, with his sights set on a potential matchup against his younger brother.
With the Colts’ 2026 schedule expected to be released later this month. Downs says there’s one game he’ll be watching closely: a regular-season home matchup versus the Cowboys.. If the timing lines up. it would give him the chance to share the field with Caleb Downs. now a rookie safety who was selected 11th overall in this year’s draft.
That connection adds extra urgency to what would otherwise be just another matchup on paper.. Misryoum notes that Josh Downs has talked about how Caleb’s early role projections with Dallas could put them in direct competition frequently. making the battle between a receiver and a defensive back a storyline in its own right.
For the Colts. the bigger picture is about readiness once the slate is confirmed. especially with the NFL’s tight rhythm that leaves little room for distractions.. Meanwhile. for Caleb. transitioning to life in the Cowboys’ system while facing the special pressure of playing against family would be a unique test.
The brother-versus-brother scenario isn’t limited to one obvious week either.. Misryoum understands the Cowboys’ schedule includes games at Rio against the Ravens in Week 3 and reserved divisional dates in Week 18. which means a potential Colts-Cowboys meeting could fall across a wider stretch of the regular season.
Insight: Matchups involving siblings rarely stay “just personal” for long, because they tend to intensify individual preparation and attention to detail for both players and their teams.
As the offseason progresses, the only certainty for now is that the confirmed date will decide when this storyline becomes reality. Once the schedule is out, Misryoum will be watching to see if the Colts can turn that head-to-head dynamic into a performance advantage.
Insight: Even before any kickoff, the possibility of a recurring brother duel can shape how fans and players frame the game, raising the stakes for every snap once the matchup is finally set.