Josh Downs Set to Play Against Jaguars Following Trade Request

Colts coach Shane Steichen confirmed Josh Downs is 'ready to go' for Sunday's game against the Jacksonville Jaguars despite the receiver requesting a trade this week.

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs will maintain his regular role in Sunday's game against the host Jacksonville Jaguars. Coach Shane Steichen confirmed that Downs practiced throughout the week and is prepared to play despite submitting a trade request earlier this week. The request follows significant organizational turnover, including the October 19 firing of general manager Chris Ballard and the recent trades of Quenton Nelson to the Seahawks and DeForest Buckner to the 49ers.

Downs currently leads the Colts with 307 receiving yards this season. However, he is recording a career-low catch rate of 56.5% while facing increased defensive attention due to the absence of No. 1 receiver Alec Pierce and tight end Tyler Warren. Steichen noted that he spoke with Downs regarding his professional obligations to the team for the upcoming matchup.

Now in the final year of his rookie contract, Downs told reporters he is focused on the current game plan while remaining open to future developments. ESPN reports that multiple teams have inquired about the receiver's availability, though the Colts' willingness to finalize a deal remains unconfirmed.