Image Source: ESPN
Josh Downs is facing renewed questions about his future with the Indianapolis Colts after a difficult performance in the team’s 27-23 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. The wide receiver dropped two crucial passes Sunday, including one during the Colts’ final possession, while trade speculation continued to build ahead of Tuesday’s NFL deadline.
Downs remained in the otherwise empty home locker room at Lucas Oil Stadium long after most of his teammates had showered and left. The 25-year-old receiver was visibly disappointed by his showing and acknowledged that he had opportunities to make a difference.
“I got some things I’ve got to fix on my own,” Downs said, according to ESPN. “I feel like I could have made some plays out there that I didn’t, and that’s on me. That’s what I’m worried about right now.”
Josh Downs’ Costly Drops Add Pressure Before Deadline
Sunday’s outing was only the third multidrop game of Downs’ career, according to TruMedia data. The timing was especially uncomfortable because Downs and his representatives had privately requested a trade from the Colts in recent weeks.
Downs is heading toward free agency in the spring, and the Colts have struggled to find consistency on offense. Indianapolis has now lost five consecutive games, creating uncertainty around several key players and the direction of the franchise.
When asked whether he wanted to remain in Indianapolis, Downs offered an open-ended response that reflected the uncertainty surrounding the roster.
“I said I’m open to whatever, and if they want me to stay here, I’m going to stay here,” Downs said. “And if they don’t, if they want to trade me away, they’ll trade me away.”
The comments place the receiver’s situation firmly among the most closely watched storylines before the trade deadline. Downs remains a reliable route runner and productive slot target when healthy, but his contract situation and recent trade request could encourage the Colts to explore potential deals.
Colts’ Roster Reset Creates More Uncertainty
Downs is not the only Indianapolis player surrounded by trade rumors. Quarterback Daniel Jones has also drawn inquiries from other teams, although one source told ESPN that Jones was very likely to remain with the Colts through the deadline.
Jones completed 20 of 34 passes for 180 yards, one touchdown and one interception against Dallas. His performance came during a challenging period for Indianapolis, which has already fired general manager Chris Ballard and traded away prominent players Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner.
Jones said the ongoing speculation has not been easy for players to manage, but he emphasized that the team must continue preparing and competing.
“There’s been decisions made outside of our control as players, and obviously that affects us,” Jones said. “But it’s our job to play and go out and play well every week.”
Despite questions about Jones’ play, coach Shane Steichen continues to support him. Jones also expressed confidence in his relationship with Steichen, saying he believes in the coach and enjoys playing for him.
Jonathan Taylor’s Future Also Hangs in the Balance
Running back Jonathan Taylor is another major Colts player whose future remains unresolved. Taylor acknowledged after Sunday’s loss that the game could have been his last in Indianapolis, even though he is under contract through 2028.
“I love repping the horseshoe,” Taylor said. “It’s out of our control now. The hay is in the barn. Now we just play the waiting game.”
Taylor signed a contract extension in August, but Indianapolis is reportedly focused on collecting draft capital while beginning a broader roster overhaul. That strategy could make even established players available if another team presents an attractive offer.
For Downs, the immediate issue is both personal and professional. His drops directly affected a close game, while the trade request has placed additional attention on every target and every mistake. A strong performance could have improved his leverage before the deadline; instead, Sunday’s result left more questions than answers.
- Downs recorded two drops in the 27-23 defeat.
- The performance was his third multidrop game, according to TruMedia.
- He and his representatives recently requested a trade.
- Indianapolis has lost five straight games.
- The NFL trade deadline arrives Tuesday afternoon.
The Colts now face a critical decision. They could keep Downs and attempt to repair the relationship, or move him for future assets before his contract situation becomes more complicated. Either path carries risk for a team already searching for stability.
For now, Downs says he is prepared for whatever happens. His next chapter could remain in Indianapolis, or Sunday’s emotional locker-room scene may become an early sign that his Colts tenure is approaching its end.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Josh Downs involved in trade rumors?
Downs and his representatives privately requested a trade in recent weeks. His upcoming free agency and the Colts’ offensive struggles have increased speculation about a possible move.
What happened to Josh Downs against the Cowboys?
Downs had two crucial drops during Indianapolis’ 27-23 loss to Dallas, including one on the Colts’ final possession.
How many multidrop games has Downs had?
According to TruMedia data cited by ESPN, Sunday’s performance was the third multidrop game of Downs’ career.
Could the Colts trade Josh Downs before the deadline?
The Colts could consider offers, but no trade was confirmed in the report. Downs said he is open to either remaining in Indianapolis or being traded.
