Usually, when an NFL receiver makes a public stink over something they're unhappy about with their current team, it's because they can throw their weight around as a star. Think Terrell Owens, A.J. Brown, Chad Johnson. You get the idea. If you're going to make a scene about something, there's an unspoken principle of, at the very minimum, being good enough to do so.
That description does not apply to Indianapolis Colts receiver Josh Downs, who has never caught more than 803 yards or more than 72 passes in a single season. With next week's NFL trade deadline just around the corner, the fourth-year receiver wants out, especially with ex-Colts teammates like Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner recently finding new homes.
But that's the thing. For
now, any talk of Downs potentially finding a team amount to just that: rumors.
This reality doesn't sit well with Downs as he languishes on a 2-6 Colts team. When asked how he feels about continuing to play for the Colts for now, Downs disagreed with a reporter's "I don't want to be here" question framing but also didn't deny how unhappy he is. He almost took the high road. The key word there is almost.
#Colts WR Josh Downs, asked how he compartmentalizes telling a team, “I don’t want to be here,” but also still being here:
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) November 4, 2026
“Those weren’t my words. But like I said, this is the team that drafted me and I’m on contract. So, I’m here right now and I gotta focus on that. …” pic.twitter.com/00UMqS1Brm
In all fairness to Downs' production in his career so far, he's clearly a solid receiver. He'd be a good piece and probably have better numbers in a healthy, functional offense, which is not how I'd describe the Colts during his tenure in Indianapolis. I also understand why he's frustrated while watching some of his teammates get the chance to leave and play for Super Bowl contenders. He's the Squidward watching everyone have fun outside through his window meme personified.
At the same time, Downs is in a contract year. Is it really wise for a player of his stature to cross his arms in public about not yet getting traded when he's going to be an unrestricted free agent in the offseason anyway? I'd be willing to bet this could be behavior he will regret if the Colts don't find a suitable trade partner between now and next Tuesday afternoon.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Colts’ Josh Downs puts on (unwarranted) diva act over stalled trade talks
