Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs has requested a trade, sources told ESPN's Jeremy Fowler. Multiple teams have expressed interest in acquiring Downs, but the lack of movement on a deal despite the team's rebuilding plan prompted the request. Downs, in the final year of his rookie contract, has struggled with defensive attention in the absence of Alec Pierce and inconsistent quarterback play. He has 26 catches for 307 yards and no touchdowns this season with a career-low 56.5% catch rate. Asked about his status, Downs said, "I'm open to whatever." Meanwhile, Colts coach Shane Steichen confirmed that star running back Jonathan Taylor has not requested a trade, stating, "no." The Colts (2-5) face uncertainty ahead of the Nov. 10 trade deadline. Recent trades of Quenton Nelson and De Forest Buckner have added to the roster turnover. Star cornerback Sauce Gardner, acquired last year, embraced the rebuild, saying, "I feel like we can turn all around and be contenders."
Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay has been vocal about the team's direction. The moves come a week after the firing of longtime general manager Chris Ballard. With the trade deadline approaching, the Colts must decide whether to sell assets or build around Gardner and Taylor for a postseason push.
Key entities: Indianapolis Colts, Josh Downs, Jonathan Taylor, Shane Steichen, Sauce Gardner, Quenton Nelson, De Forest Buckner, Chris Ballard
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Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing