NFL Star Wide Receiver Has Officially Requested A Trade

Downs addressed his situation with the Colts on Wednesday. He did not confirm whether he wanted to leave, but he kept his options open.

“I’m open to whatever. Whatever comes my way, come my way and we go from there,” Downs said.

The receiver also stressed his focus on the team’s upcoming game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

“I’m here right now,” he said. “I’m here right now, I’m where my feet are. We got the Jags this weekend and so I’m in the game plan. So, I’ve got to be ready to go.”

Downs has recorded 26 catches for 307 yards and no touchdowns this season. He has also posted a career-low 56.5% catch rate. The absence of top receiver Alec Pierce and quarterback Daniel Jones’ inconsistent play have made things harder for him.

Defenses have paid more attention to Downs, often sending a second defender into his area. That has limited his production as Indianapolis struggles to find other reliable receiving options.

Several teams could explore a move for Downs if the Colts decide to trade him. The New England Patriots stand out because of his college connection with quarterback Drake Maye. The two played together at North Carolina in 2022, when Downs caught 94 passes for 1,029 yards and 11 touchdowns.

The San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs could also consider adding him as they deal with receiver injuries. The Washington Commanders offer another possible destination as they look to build a younger supporting cast around quarterback Jayden Daniels.

Head coach Shane Steichen acknowledged the difficulty of losing crucial players but urged his team to stay focused.

“Anytime you lose guys like that, it hurts,” Steichen said. “But that’s the NFL and that’s the hard part about it. That’s what we signed up for.”

With the trade deadline approaching, Downs’ future in Indianapolis remains a question.