Colts receiver Josh Downs reflects on costly drops amid trade deadline uncertainty

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs was the last player to leave the locker room at Lucas Oil Stadium on Sunday, lingering long after the team’s 27-23 defeat to the Dallas Cowboys. The loss, which marked the Colts' fifth consecutive setback, was compounded for Downs by a rare and difficult personal performance that included two critical dropped passes, one of which occurred during the team's final drive.

The timing of the performance was particularly difficult as the NFL trade deadline approaches this Tuesday. Downs, who has privately requested a trade in recent weeks, acknowledged the weight of his errors while facing questions about his future with the franchise. He noted that he needs to address his own execution, emphasizing that he missed opportunities he should have converted. According to TruMedia data, this was only the third multi-drop game of his career.

Quarterback Daniel Jones, who finished the game with 180 yards, one touchdown, and one interception on 20-of-34 passing, also addressed the ongoing trade rumors. While acknowledging that external decisions have been difficult for the players, Jones maintained that his focus remains on his responsibilities on the field. Despite his recent dip in form following his $88 million contract extension in March, Jones expressed his continued belief in head coach Shane Steichen and the team's current direction.