Josh Downs emerges as key NFL trade candidate ahead of deadline

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs has become a significant subject of NFL trade speculation as the November 10 deadline approaches. Following the Colts' recent trades of Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner, analysts suggest the team may continue a sell-off of expiring contracts.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler and Matt Bowen have assigned Downs a 45% chance of being traded, noting that he has garnered interest from multiple teams. Potential landing spots identified include the Kansas City Chiefs, who are looking to bolster their receiving corps following injuries to Rashee Rice, and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Other analysts have suggested the Cincinnati Bengals could benefit from acquiring Downs to strengthen their slot receiving options.

Downs, a 2023 third-round pick, has been a productive presence for the Colts, particularly in the slot. While he has not officially requested a trade, he has expressed openness to a change of scenery, stating he is “open to whatever” comes his way.