Chiefs Trade: Kansas City Acquires Slot Threat Josh Downs From Indianapolis
The Chiefs traded 2027 fourth- and fifth-round picks to the Colts for wide receiver Josh Downs, addressing a persistent deficiency in their passing game.
By Nadia Rahman ·
The Kansas City Chiefs secured wide receiver Josh Downs from the Indianapolis Colts in a trade completed on Tuesday. In exchange, the Chiefs sent their 2027 fourth- and fifth-round draft picks to Indianapolis. The Colts also received a 2027 seventh-round pick from Kansas City as part of the transaction.
The move addresses a specific struggle for the Chiefs, who have failed to complete a pass of more than 20 air yards since defeating the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 4. In their recent 242-yard victory over the New York Jets, quarterback Patrick Mahomes averaged just 2.8 air yards per attempt. That figure represented the second-fewest in his career according to Next Gen Stats, despite two touchdowns. The injury to Tyquan Thornton, who suffered a dislocated left ankle requiring surgery, earlier in the season left the team without a clear deep threat.
Downs is known for his route-running ability and speed, particularly from the slot position. He had a strong performance against Kansas City in Week 2, catching seven passes on nine targets for 72 yards. Although his catch percentage sits at a career-low 57.9% this season, Downs has averaged 66 catches and 713.3 yards over his first three seasons. His contract expires after this season, which may have influenced the trade dynamics.
The acquisition leaves the Colts with a less experienced receiving corps. The team promoted Nick Westbrook-Ikhine from the practice squad on Tuesday. With no timeline for the return of Alec Pierce, the Colts will rely on Laquon Treadwell, Ashton Dulin, and rookie Deion Burks. Tight end Tyler Warren may also see an increased role. Downs is the second wide receiver traded by Indianapolis this week, following the deal that sent Keenan Allen to the San Francisco 49ers.
Downs requested the trade after a loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday, where he dropped two passes. He told reporters, "I got some things I've got to fix on my own." He maintained that he was open to staying in Indianapolis if the team wanted him, but accepted the move if they chose to trade him. The Chiefs will face the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday in Atlanta, where Downs will likely make his debut.
