Steelers Pursue Josh Downs Amid Colts Rebuild

Key points

• Pittsburgh Steelers have expressed interest in trading for Colts wide receiver Josh Downs, according to Jordan Schultz of Behind the Steel Curtain.
• Josh Downs requested a trade from the Colts on Wednesday, following the team's Tuesday trades of guard Quenton Nelson and defensive lineman DeForest Buckner.
• Downs has 26 receptions for 307 yards this season, with a career total of 224 receptions for 2,447 yards and 11 touchdowns.
• The Colts fired general manager Chris Ballard last week and are in a 2-5 record, signaling a full-scale rebuild.
• If traded to Pittsburgh, Downs would be the second Colts pass-catcher traded to the Steelers this year, following Michael Pittman Jr.

Background

The Colts have undergone a significant roster overhaul, trading All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks for third- and fifth-round picks and Pro Bowl defensive lineman DeForest Buckner to the San Francisco 49ers for a fourth-round pick. These moves follow the firing of GM Chris Ballard and a 2-5 start to the 2026 season. Downs, a 25-year-old slot receiver in the final year of his rookie contract, has been the team's most reliable receiving threat this season, especially after the departure of Michael Pittman Jr. to Pittsburgh in March and the limited playing time of Alec Pierce.

How outlets are covering it

Behind the Steel Curtain reports that the Steelers have expressed interest in Downs, with sources indicating a trade is likely but not expected this week. Fox News and NFL.com emphasize the broader context of the Colts' rebuild, noting that Downs' trade request follows the team's fire sale of key veterans. NFL.com highlights that Downs is in the final year of his rookie contract and is just entering his prime, making him a movable asset for the Colts. Fox News notes that Downs did not deny the trade request when speaking to reporters, stating, 'I'm open to whatever. Whatever comes my way, comes my way and we go from there.' ESPN's report, referenced by multiple outlets, confirms the trade request but does not specify the Steelers' interest.

Why it matters

The potential trade of Josh Downs to the Steelers would significantly impact both teams' rosters and futures. For the Steelers, acquiring Downs would add a proven pass-catcher to their offense, while for the Colts, it would further their rebuild by acquiring draft capital. The trade deadline is November 10, and Downs could be playing elsewhere by then if the Colts grant his request. The move also highlights the broader instability within the Colts organization following the firing of GM Chris Ballard and the team's poor start to the 2026 season.

What to watch

The Colts will face the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, which could be Downs' final game with the team if a trade is reached. The NFL trade deadline is November 10, and sources indicate a trade is likely before then. The Steelers and Colts will need to negotiate a deal, with the Steelers potentially sending draft picks or other players in exchange for Downs. The outcome of the trade will depend on the Colts' willingness to move Downs and the Steelers' ability to meet the Colts' demands.