Josh Downs Requests Trade from Colts

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs has reportedly asked for a trade, as indicated by ESPN. The 25-year-old didn’t refute the news when he spoke to the media.

“I’m open to whatever. Whatever comes my way, comes my way and we go from there,” Downs shared, echoing a somewhat nonchalant attitude in his response.

This trade request emerges during a significant restructuring of the Colts’ roster. Recently, the team traded key players Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner, two cornerstone athletes, in separate deals. Following their recent loss to the Minnesota Vikings, and a coaching change with the firing of general manager Chris Ballard, the Colts seem to be entering a rebuilding phase.

Nelson was sent to the Seattle Seahawks for third- and fifth-round draft choices, while Buckner moved to the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for a fourth-round pick. These draft picks are especially crucial for Indianapolis since they no longer possess their first-round pick for the upcoming draft after trading it to the New York Jets last year for cornerback Sauce Gardner.

Downs, who was selected by the Colts in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft from North Carolina, has dedicated his entire four-year career to the team. This season, he has participated in seven games, making 26 receptions for 307 yards. Across his 54-game career with the Colts, Downs has amassed 224 catches for 2,447 yards and 11 touchdowns. He has also contributed as a punt returner, averaging 9.4 yards per return throughout his career.

The trade deadline is set for November 10, and if the Colts comply with Downs’ request, he could be on a different team soon. Should he remain with Indianapolis, the Colts are scheduled to play against the Jacksonville Jaguars at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, which might mark his last game with the franchise.