Chiefs Terminate WR’s Contract After NFL Trade Deadline

Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images via Reuters Connect

Chiefs Terminate WR’s Contract After NFL Trade Deadline

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Nov 11, 2026 10:42 AM ET

The Kansas City Chiefs made one of the biggest splashes of the NFL trade deadline, acquiring Indianapolis Colts WR Josh Downs to strengthen Patrick Mahomes’ receiving corps. The move gives Andy Reid another reliable pass-catching option as Kansas City looks to return to the playoffs.

The Chiefs acquired Downs in exchange for their 2027 fourth- and fifth-round draft picks, while also receiving a seventh-round selection from Indianapolis. The deal came after Downs requested a trade following the Colts’ decision to move some of their core players, including Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner.

Kansas City had been searching for additional help at receiver, particularly with Tyquan Thornton on injured reserve with an ankle injury and Xavier Worthy dealing with a hamstring injury. Downs has recorded 33 receptions for 354 yards and one touchdown this season.

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Nikko Remigio (81).Denny Medley-Imagn Images

On Wednesday, the Chiefs made the acquisition official, welcoming Downs to Kansas City. However, the team also announced two corresponding roster moves, waiving wide receiver Nikko Remigio and defensive end Jack Pyburn to make room for its new addition.

Remigio spent three seasons with Kansas City after entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2023. He primarily contributed on special teams, recording 1,354 kickoff return yards and 373 punt return yards across 27 regular-season appearances. He also caught three passes for 69 yards during his Chiefs career.

We have traded for WR Josh Downs.

We have waived WR Nikko Remigio and DE Jack Pyburn. pic.twitter.com/bdZIgClbIW
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) November 11, 2026

Pyburn, meanwhile, joined Kansas City on Aug. 31 after initially entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The rookie defensive end did not appear in a regular-season game for the Chiefs before being waived.

The roster changes clear space for Downs, who will hope to help the 6-2 Chiefs finish the 2026 season on a strong note.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: