Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs has requested a trade, according to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, as the franchise continues to move notable veterans ahead of the NFL trade deadline. The Colts have already dealt offensive guard Quenton Nelson and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner following the firing of general manager Chris Ballard, with running back Jonathan Taylor also mentioned in trade speculation.
Downs, who is in the final year of his rookie contract, told reporters on Wednesday, "It is what it is. I'm here today, but whatever comes my way comes my way." The 2023 third-round pick out of North Carolina has caught 26 passes for a team-high 307 yards and zero touchdowns in seven games this season. With Alec Pierce sidelined by an ankle injury, Downs, Keenan Allen, and tight end Tyler Warren have carried the passing workload.
Since entering the league, Downs has recorded 1,964 receiving yards from the slot, ranking second in the NFL behind Detroit's Amon-Ra St. Brown. His best season came in 2024 with 72 receptions for 803 yards and five touchdowns. In 54 career games, he has totaled 224 catches for 2,447 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Potential Landing Spots
Several teams have been identified as logical fits for Downs. The Los Angeles Rams, dealing with injuries to Davante Adams and thin receiver depth behind Puka Nacua, could use a slot weapon for Matthew Stafford. The New England Patriots offer a reunion with quarterback Drake Maye, Downs' top target at North Carolina in 2022. The Atlanta Falcons, led by Michael Penix Jr., seek a complement to Drake London. The Kansas City Chiefs, struggling offensively after a 20-3 loss to Seattle, need additional weapons for Patrick Mahomes with Rashee Rice injured. The Las Vegas Raiders, possessing perhaps the league's thinnest receiver room, could offer Downs immediate playing time and a long-term role.
