Chiefs Weigh Trade for Colts Receiver Josh Downs

Kansas City’s search for help at wide receiver has turned attention to Indianapolis’ Josh Downs, whose name has circulated in trade discussions. The Chiefs were also interested in Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Brian Thomas Jr., but were less inclined to pursue him, making Downs appear a more attainable option. Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated included Downs in a roundup of trade possibilities.

Downs could be available for a fourth-round selection, and Kansas City has two picks in that round of the 2027 NFL Draft. He is playing the last season of his rookie contract, with a reported $1.96 million cap charge for a team acquiring him.

The 5-foot-9 receiver has averaged 10.3 yards per target depth this season, his highest mark, and recorded a career-best 7.6 yards before the catch per reception. His 2.15 yards per route against man coverage ranks among the top 25 receivers who have run at least 100 routes in 2026, SumerSports data shows.

Downs often lines up in the slot, where Kansas City also uses Rashee Rice. But he has shown an ability to make contested catches: he has at least five during all of his first three seasons, plus four through eight games this year. No Chiefs receiver has more than two, Pro Football Focus figures show.

The NFL trade deadline is November 10 afternoon. Waiting could give another team a chance to raise the price, while Indianapolis may prefer to hold off until the deadline to encourage competing offers. The Chiefs’ next opportunity to add a major receiver may come in the offseason.