Overview
- Colts coach Shane Steichen confirmed that receiver Josh Downs requested a trade, a development first reported this week and acknowledged by the team.
- Downs publicly disputed a reporter’s phrasing of his request, saying “those weren’t my words” and stressing he remains under contract and focused on his role with Indianapolis.
- League sources say multiple teams have called about Downs, with the Colts reportedly asking for a third- or fourth-round pick in return for the contract-year slot receiver.
- Indianapolis plans to wait until after its Sunday game to reevaluate offers, though sources say an exceptional early bid could force a quicker deal before the Nov. 10 trade deadline.
- The push to move Downs follows the Colts’ earlier trades of Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner and could reshape short-term roster plans and other trade talks, including interest in receivers around the league.