Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs has reportedly requested a trade, according to a recent ESPN report. When questioned by reporters, the 25-year-old player did not dispute the information.
“I’m open to whatever. Whatever comes my way, comes my way and we go from there,” Downs stated, as reported by ESPN.
Roster Overhaul Underway
Downs' alleged trade request emerges amidst a period of significant roster adjustments for the Colts. The team recently moved two of its foundational players, offensive guard Quenton Nelson and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, in separate transactions on Tuesday. These moves follow the dismissal of General Manager Chris Ballard last week, and after a recent defeat to the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, the organization appears to be entering a rebuilding phase.
The Colts sent Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for third- and fifth-round draft selections. DeForest Buckner was traded to the San Francisco 49ers, bringing back a fourth-round pick for Indianapolis. These draft picks hold particular importance for the Colts, as the team does not possess its first-round selection in the upcoming year's draft, having previously traded it to the New York Jets for cornerback Sauce Gardner last year.
Downs' Career and Future
Josh Downs has spent his entire four-year National Football League career with the Colts since Indianapolis drafted him in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft out of North Carolina.
In seven games this current season, Downs has recorded 26 receptions for a total of 307 receiving yards. Across 54 career appearances for the Colts, he has accumulated 224 catches for 2,447 yards and 11 touchdowns. Additionally, he has contributed as a punt returner throughout his career, averaging 9.4 yards per return.
With the NFL trade deadline set for November 10, Downs could potentially be playing for a different team if the Colts decide to honor his reported request. Should he remain with Indianapolis through Sunday, the Colts are scheduled to face the Jacksonville Jaguars at 1 p.m. ET in what could mark his final game with the team.
