Colts Receiver Josh Downs Requests Trade Before Deadline

Josh Downs, a fourth-year wide receiver for the Indianapolis Colts, has asked to be traded. Sources told ESPN's Jeremy Fowler that multiple teams have shown interest in the 25-year-old. The request followed the team's recent moves to sell off veteran assets, a strategy that left players unsure of their futures.

The situation developed over the past week. On Tuesday, the Colts traded guard Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to the San Francisco 49ers. These deals came one week after the organization fired general manager Chris Ballard. The team is currently 2-5 and is operating under a clear rebuilding plan.

On Wednesday, Downs addressed the uncertainty in a press conference. He said he is open to any outcome. He stated, "I'm open to whatever. Whatever comes my way, come my way and we go from there." He emphasized that he is part of the game plan for the upcoming weekend against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Downs has faced defensive attention this season. In the absence of wideout Alec Pierce, opponents have doubled him frequently. He has recorded 26 catches for 307 yards and no touchdowns. His catch rate has dropped to 56.5%, a career low. The inconsistency of quarterback Daniel Jones has also affected his production.

Head coach Shane Steichen addressed the status of running back Jonathan Taylor on Wednesday. Multiple teams have expressed interest in Taylor, but Steichen said the star has not requested a trade. Steichen answered "no" when reporters asked if Taylor had asked to be moved. He added, "Those are hypothetical things right now. I know there's stuff floating around out there, but JT's on our football team."

Steichen noted that losing Nelson and Buckner hurts the team, but it is part of the NFL process. He said he would keep the details of their requests private. The Colts have until November 10 to finalize any further trades. The team will play the Jaguars this weekend with Downs in the lineup.

The trade for Buckner included a 2027 fourth-round pick. The trade for Nelson included a 2027 third-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round pick. These selections are part of the Colts' strategy to rebuild their roster for the future.