Colts Receiver Josh Downs Says He Is Open To A Trade

The Indianapolis Colts are 2-5 and preparing to play in Jacksonville on Sunday, a matchup against the 4-2 Jaguars, which currently leads the AFC South. Jacksonville has the league's top run defense, allowing 3.2 yards per carry.

Josh Downs, a fourth-year wide receiver in the final year of his rookie contract, addressed trade rumors during Wednesday's media availability. "I'm open to whatever," Downs said repeatedly. "Whatever comes my way comes my way." When asked if he wanted a contract extension with the Colts before this season began, he replied, "..I wouldn't say that."

The potential departure of Downs follows recent roster moves involving veteran players DeForest Buckner and Quenton Nelson, who were traded while on expiring contracts. Head coach Shane Steichen said Jonathan Taylor has not requested a trade. Steichen declined to discuss whether Buckner or Nelson asked to be moved. "I didn't sugarcoat it," Steichen said regarding his message to the team. "Anytime you lose those guys, they're tough to replace. But we got to understand that we're in a business, and this is a business. Tough decisions have to be made in a franchise and everyone's got a job to do." Steichen added, "And we all signed up for it. And we get paid to do a job and we've got to improve and get better every single day."

The organization is dealing with injuries to its secondary. Cam Taylor-Britt moved to injured reserve following the Vikings game, a designation that will cost him at least four games. Justin Walley left the Vikings game early with a knee injury. Sauce Gardner missed that contest with a left calf issue but told reporters Wednesday that he hopes to practice this week. The Colts held a walk-through Wednesday and are scheduled for practices Thursday and Friday. Gardner, who remains under contract through 2030, addressed the team's current state: "I feel like I'm fit for a rebuild, anything. I feel like we can turn this all around and be contenders."

With Quenton Nelson traded, rookie fourth-round pick Jalen Farmer will take over at left guard. Farmer, who played primarily right guard in college, has logged three offensive snaps this season. He joins Tanor Bortolini at center and Matt Goncalves at right guard on the offensive line. The Colts have not won a road game in Jacksonville since 2014.