With the 2023 NFL Draft in the rearview mirror, it's time to turn the page to the next chapter for the Indianapolis Colts. The team begins its rookie minicamp on Friday, giving fans the first taste of football since last season ended.

There is a lot of excitement and optimism surrounding the Colts ahead of next season. Thanks to a new head coach running the show in Shane Steichen and a rookie draft class headlined by quarterback Anthony Richardson.

It has not taken long for the rookies to make a big impression. In fact, two of the team's most notable newcomers are already putting in the work. Which will certainly fire the fan base up.

To surround Anthony Richardson and maximize the rookie quarterback's skills, the Colts drafted North Carolina wide receiver Josh Downs in the third-round. Downs is a quick and shifty pass catcher that put up gaudy numbers on the collegiate level.

Before rookie minicamp even kicked off, the quarterback and receiver were already at work. Downs told the media on Friday that he and Richardson were getting some practice in at a hotel parking lot.

Colts rookie receiver Josh Downs, on Day 1 of rookie camp, says he went out to catch balls from Anthony Richardson in the hotel parking lot last night. Didn’t want to waste any time.

— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) May 5, 2023

Which is a fantastic sign. Downs explained that the new Colts duo did not want to waste any time developing their on-field connection. That is something that really reveals the leadership of the two rookies.

Downs noted that he has quickly taken notice of Richardson's arm talent. That was the North Carolina product's first impression of his QB. Which shouldn't come as any surprise, given that is considered to be among Richardson's best traits.

"His arm is crazy," said Downs.

The Indianapolis Colts are baking on the rookie class turning things around for the franchise. If the early returns are any indication, it appears that things are on track to do just that.