Potential Destinations for Jonathan Taylor and Josh Downs as Colts Trade Key Players

The Indianapolis Colts, sitting at 2-5, moved guard Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks and defensive lineman DeForest Buckner to the San Francisco 49ers on Tuesday, a response to a three-game losing streak. With the trade deadline approaching, running back Jonathan Taylor and wide receiver Josh Downs are being linked to several possible new teams.

Analysts note that the New York Giants could benefit from Taylor’s speed, offering a larger upgrade over current starter Cam Skattebo, who posted 124 rushing yards and a touchdown last week. Adding Taylor would provide a home-run threat in the backfield and help replace the production lost after Saquon Barkley’s departure.

The Minnesota Vikings, currently 6-0 on defense, are also mentioned as a potential fit, with Taylor complementing veteran backs Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason and adding depth to an offense that has relied heavily on its defense.

New England Patriots fans are cited as a possible market for Taylor, given concerns about Rhamondre Stevenson’s ball security and limited trust in TreVeyon Henderson. The Patriots could view Taylor as an immediate upgrade.

The Kansas City Chiefs, seeking additional weapons for quarterback Patrick Mahomes, are identified as a destination for Josh Downs. While Downs is not considered an elite receiver, he could provide depth alongside existing options.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are another team mentioned for Downs, where he would join a receiving corps that includes DK Metcalf and emerging talent Germie Bernard, potentially adding another threat for quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

These scenarios remain speculative as teams evaluate roster needs ahead of the November 10 trade deadline.