Josh Downs Trade: Five Landing Spots

Josh Downs Trade: Five Landing Spots

The Indianapolis Colts’ roster shakeup could soon reach Josh Downs, with the receiver emerging as an intriguing name ahead of the November 10 NFL trade deadline.

According to reporting from Jordan Schultz, receiver-needy teams have contacted Indianapolis about Downs. ESPN’s Adam Schefter also identified him as a potential trade candidate. No completed Downs trade has been announced. 

After dealing Quenton Nelson to Seattle and DeForest Buckner to San Francisco, Indianapolis appears focused on collecting draft capital. Downs presents a different decision: He is 25, productive and approaching the end of his rookie contract. 

Five Teams in the Market for Downs 

For interested teams, his quickness and ability to create separation offer a boost. Here are five destinations ranked by fit, rather than confirmed negotiations.

1. Kansas City Chiefs

Kansas City tops the list because its need aligns with reported interest in the receiver market. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that the Chiefs have been calling around for help. Downs could give Patrick Mahomes another dependable underneath option, helping sustain drives while reducing pressure on Travis Kelce. His arrival would also provide insurance against further receiver injuries. 

2. New England Patriots

A reunion with Drake Maye offers an appealing storyline and a practical football fit. Downs caught 94 passes for 1,029 yards and 11 touchdowns during their final season together at North Carolina. With Romeo Doubs and Mack Hollins on injured reserve, New England could use that familiarity to strengthen its passing game during the playoff chase. 

3. San Francisco 49ers

San Francisco already found common ground with Indianapolis in the Buckner deal. Another conversation would make sense given its depleted receiving corps. Ricky Pearsall’s season-ending knee injury has increased the urgency. Downs could supply Brock Purdy with a separator underneath, giving Kyle Shanahan another option to complement George Kittle and Christian McCaffrey. 

4. Pittsburgh Steelers

Pittsburgh belongs in the conversation after Fowler identified it as another team to watch for receiver help. Injuries to Michael Pittman Jr. and Roman Wilson have weakened its depth. Downs could help Aaron Rodgers get the ball out quickly and provide another option on third down, although his role would require balancing existing receivers. 

5. Los Angeles Rams

Davante Adams’ hamstring injury makes Los Angeles a logical potential buyer. Downs would offer Matthew Stafford another receiver capable of finding space against man coverage. Alongside Puka Nacua, he could help keep the offense moving while Adams recovers. 

Ultimately, Indianapolis must weigh a draft-pick return against keeping a young contributor. For these five teams, the attraction is clear: Downs could address a need while offering value beyond this season if extended.