Colts’ Josh Downs makes his feelings known about whether WR wants to trade away or negotiate contract extension

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs addressed the trade rumors surrounding him on Wednesday. His comments came hours after reports surfaced that he had requested a trade.

The former third-round pick was asked about his future in Indianapolis.

“I’d say like I said, I’m open to whatever,” Downs said. “Whatever comes my way, comes my way. And we go from there.”

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70% Win

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70% Win

(110-25-1)

70% Win

(110-25-1)

The receiver was also asked whether he had hoped to sign a contract extension before the season.

“If it came my way, it came my way. But I wouldn’t say that now,” Downs added. “I’m here right now. 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 is in the final year of his rookie contract and has recorded 26 catches for 307 yards without a touchdown in seven games. The fourth-year receiver’s request comes after the firing of longtime general manager Chris Ballard and a 2-5 start to the season.

Indianapolis has already started moving big names, trading All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson to Seattle and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to San Francisco.

Also Read: Josh Downs landing spots: 5 teams that should target Colts WR as Carlie Irsay-Gordon signals fire sale in Indianapolis

Also Read: “No one is safe” “Colts are for sale”: NFL fans react to Josh Downs reportedly being put on trade block in Indy

3 potential landing spots for Josh Downs

Josh Downs has reportedly requested a trade from the Indianapolis Colts, and several teams could try to land him before the November 10 deadline. The New England Patriots make sense because of Downs’ previous connection with Drake Maye at North Carolina.

In 2022, Downs caught 94 passes for 1,029 yards and 11 touchdowns with Maye at quarterback. With A.J. Brown struggling with drops and Romeo Doubs and Mack Hollins on injured reserve, Downs could give Maye a familiar target.

The San Francisco 49ers are another option. Despite having several receivers on the roster, injuries have repeatedly affected their plans. Adding another receiver would give San Francisco more depth for a potential playoff run.

The Kansas City Chiefs could also benefit from bringing Downs aboard. Rashee Rice is dealing with another injury, leaving Xavier Worthy as Patrick Mahomes’ top receiving target. With Travis Kelce no longer as explosive as he once was, Kansas City needs more reliable options in the passing game.

Edited by Nishant