The Kansas City Chiefs added veteran wide receiver Josh Downs in a deal with the Indianapolis Colts, addressing a position group that needed help. Downs is expected to take on a significant role in Patrick Mahomes’ offense, and his arrival could affect how the Chiefs use Xavier Worthy, their 2024 first-round pick and a key deep threat.
NFL analyst Moe Moton gave the move an “A” grade, citing Downs’ potential to become a long-term target in Kansas City’s passing game. Although Downs was generally a secondary option in Indianapolis, he recorded 68 catches for 771 yards and two touchdowns as a rookie, followed by 72 catches for 803 yards and five touchdowns the next season. Moton suggested that Downs could complement Rashee Rice particularly well, with the versatility to line up both in the slot and on the perimeter.
Mahomes has also praised Downs’ ability to learn quickly. He said the receiver showed intelligence and professionalism, and noted that the Colts and Chiefs use some similar offensive concepts. Mahomes expected the full offense to take a couple of weeks to learn but said Downs had already made a strong impression.
Worthy’s role, however, may not shrink significantly. Kansas City is short on deep threats after Tyquan Thornton suffered a dislocated ankle, an injury expected to sideline him for the rest of the regular season or longer. Worthy has caught 33 passes for 278 yards and one touchdown this season. His longest reception is 41 yards, and he is averaging a career-low 8.4 yards per catch.
