Josh Downs Will Play Against Jaguars Despite Recent Trade Request

Trade Request Follows Major Roster Moves

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs is set to play his regular role on Sunday against the Jacksonville Jaguars, even after asking for a trade earlier this week.

The trade request comes during a period of major changes for the team. General manager Chris Ballard was fired on Oct. 19. The organization also traded star players Quenton Nelson to the Seahawks and DeForest Buckner to the 49ers earlier in the week.

Downs expressed frustration when speaking with reporters on Wednesday. He noted that he is focused on the immediate task at hand and added that he is open to whatever comes his way.

Steichen Expects Professional Effort

Head coach Shane Steichen spoke with Downs following the trade request. Steichen reminded the wide receiver to remain professional and focus on the upcoming game.

Steichen told reporters that Downs practiced all week and is ready to go. He added that the team expects Downs to perform at his best on Sunday. Other teams have called about the receiver, but it is not clear if Indianapolis will trade him. Downs is currently in the final year of his rookie contract.

The receiver leads the team with 307 receiving yards this season. He has taken on a larger role with top receiver Alec Pierce out of the lineup. Tight end Tyler Warren has also missed the last two games. The extra defensive attention has contributed to mixed results for Downs, who has a career low catch rate of 56.5 percent.

What it means for the next game

Indianapolis Colts at Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL, Sun, 01 Nov): Jacksonville Jaguars win 79%, Indianapolis Colts win 21%; projected score Jacksonville Jaguars 28, Indianapolis Colts 19. Our safest pick: Jaguars to win.

Dallas Cowboys at Indianapolis Colts (NFL, Sun, 08 Nov): Indianapolis Colts win 33%, Dallas Cowboys win 67%; projected score Indianapolis Colts 23, Dallas Cowboys 28. Our safest pick: Cowboys +2.5.