Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs (2) reacts Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026, after being tackled during the game against the Tennessee Titans at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs (2) reacts Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026, after being tackled during the game against the Tennessee Titans at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
The Kansas City Chiefs could be closing in on a trade for Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs ahead of Tuesday's 4 p.m. ET NFL trade deadline, with some teams reportedly believing a deal is already lined up.
According to Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer, Kansas City has emerged as a leading contender for Downs, with speculation suggesting the Colts could receive a fourth-round draft pick in return.
“The Chiefs and Steelers have been the prime suitors for receivers, with the Niners still lingering on the periphery. There was a belief from some teams over the weekend that Downs would be moved to Kansas City for a fourth-round pick.”
Breer added that Indianapolis could benefit from allowing negotiations to continue as multiple teams explore potential receiving upgrades.
“And again, the hope, for the Colts, would be that letting this all play out might sweeten whatever deal they get for the tough, resourceful middle-of-the-field target, who’s at the end of his rookie deal.”
Although Kansas City appears to be a serious contender, Breer's report does not indicate that the two organizations have finalized an agreement.
The Chiefs have continued exploring opportunities to strengthen their receiving corps as they prepare for the second half of the season.
Kansas City improved to 6-2 following a convincing 35-12 victory over the New York Jets in Week 9, maintaining its position among the AFC's leading playoff contenders.
Adding Downs would provide another option in the passing game as the Chiefs prepare for their Week 10 road matchup against the Atlanta Falcons (3-6) on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET on CBS.
Colts could move Josh Downs amid five-game losing streak
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs (2) attempts to catch a pass against Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Jarrian Jones (22) during the first half at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Robert Goddin-Imagn Images
Indianapolis has taken a different approach to the trade deadline following a disappointing start to the season.
The Colts dropped to 2-7 after suffering a 27-23 loss to the Dallas Cowboys in Week 9, extending their losing streak to five games.
The organization has already moved prominent veterans, including Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner, as it looks to accumulate future draft capital.
Downs could become another trade candidate as Indianapolis evaluates its long-term roster construction.
Through nine games this season, Downs has recorded 33 receptions for 354 yards and one touchdown, averaging 10.7 yards per catch. The 25-year-old caught three passes for 24 yards in Sunday's loss to the Cowboys.
The Colts will attempt to snap their losing streak when they host the Miami Dolphins (1-7) on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET on CBS.
With Pittsburgh and San Francisco also monitoring the receiver market, Indianapolis could have additional leverage before Tuesday's 4 p.m. deadline.