The Indianapolis Colts executed trades involving wide receivers Keenan Allen and Josh Downs as the NFL trade deadline unfolded. Indianapolis sent Allen to the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for a sixth-round draft pick.
Colts Trade Allen and Downs
The Colts also traded wideout Josh Downs to the Kansas City Chiefs in a deal that brought fourth- and fifth-round selections to Indianapolis, while the Colts included a seventh-rounder going back to Kansas City.
Allen, playing his 14th season on a one-year contract, represented a logical departure for a struggling Indianapolis squad holding a 2-7 record. The transaction also benefits the 7-1 49ers, who have suffered significant injuries at the wide receiver position and required reinforcements.
The six-time Pro Bowler has recorded 40 receptions for 351 yards and one touchdown this season. Downs has accumulated 33 catches for 354 yards and a score in 2026.
Regarding Downs, a social media post reflected his mixed feelings about the departure alongside gratitude for his tenure in Indianapolis. Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes monitored that post.
The move could prove beneficial for the 6-2 Chiefs, who required additional pass-catching weapons given that no wide receiver on the roster has exceeded 300 receiving yards or two receiving touchdowns.
At the same time, Downs has experienced a somewhat disappointing campaign during the final year of his rookie contract. He has failed to surpass 50 receiving yards in his past six contests and has not reached 25 yards in any of his last three appearances.
Even so, a new environment may provide a spark for Downs, who previously totaled 140 receptions across his first two seasons from 2023 to 2024.
Bleacher Report provided ongoing coverage of the deadline, including evaluations for every transaction and the latest rumors surrounding buyers and sellers.
