NFL9 Nov 20262 minute read

Josh Downs Struggles as Colts Trade Rumors Swirl After Loss

Josh Downs had two big drops in the Colts 27-23 loss to Dallas as trade deadline rumors build in Indianapolis.

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Troubles Mounting for Josh Downs

Josh Downs sat in an empty home locker room long after his teammates left Lucas Oil Stadium. The Indianapolis Colts had just lost 27-23 to the Dallas Cowboys. It was the fifth straight loss for the team, and Downs struggled on the field.

Downs finished with two drops in the game, including one on the final possession. It was only the third multi drop game of his career. Downs and his representatives requested a trade in recent weeks as he approaches free agency in the spring. He said he has things to fix on his own and acknowledged his play was on him. He added that he is open to staying or being traded depending on what the team wants.

Trade Inquiries for Daniel Jones

Quarterback Daniel Jones has also heard trade rumors ahead of the deadline on Tuesday afternoon. Other teams have made trade inquiries about him. Against Dallas, Jones completed 20 of 34 passes for 180 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.

Jones mentioned that decisions made outside player control affect the team, but stressed that players still need to go out and play well. Jones signed an 88 million dollar extension in March. He remains very likely to stay with Indianapolis through the deadline, where he retains the backing of head coach Shane Steichen.

Jonathan Taylor Facing Uncertain Future

The Colts have already fired general manager Chris Ballard and traded stars Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner as they stockpile draft picks. That roster cleanup has put running back Jonathan Taylor in limbo.

Taylor, who is 28 years old, signed a contract extension in August that runs through 2028. Yet he acknowledged that Sunday could have been his final home game with the franchise. Taylor said that it is out of their control now and that the team is playing the waiting game.

What it means for the next game

Miami Dolphins at Indianapolis Colts (NFL, Sun, 15 Nov): Indianapolis Colts win 51%, Miami Dolphins win 49%; projected score Indianapolis Colts 23, Miami Dolphins 20. Our safest pick: Over 35.5 points.

San Francisco 49ers at Dallas Cowboys (NFL, Sun, 15 Nov): Dallas Cowboys win 34%, San Francisco 49ers win 66%; projected score Dallas Cowboys 25, San Francisco 49ers 30. Our safest pick: Under 62.5 points.