The Kansas City Chiefs used to have one of the best offenses in the business. The passing game was electric, and Patrick Mahomes used to have multiple options to turn to when things got difficult, but the good old days are gone.
That's why, now that the Indianapolis Colts might go through a bit of a panic sale, there's simply no way KC shouldn't be all over Josh Downs. He might be the only realistic wide receiver trade target this team can aspire to get.
The Colts fired general manager Chris Ballard after a humiliating home loss to the Tennessee Titans and a 2-5 start to the season. That's usually the beginning of a roster overhaul, and Downs should be up for grabs at the right price.
The Kansas City Chiefs must trade for Josh Downs
Through seven games, Downs hasn't necessarily lived up to expectations, especially given Indianapolis' absences at the position. That said, it's hard to blame him, given how terribly Daniel Jones has played this season.
Downs has hauled in 26 receptions on 46 targets for 307 yards, which equals 11.8 yards per catch and just 43.9 receiving yards per game. That said, he only has one drop, and he's been a victim of terrible quarterback play this season.
On the other side of the equation, the Chiefs have a struggling duo of Xavier Worthy and Rashee Rice, probably the most overrated wide receiver tandem among Super Bowl-contending teams by a significant margin.
The Chiefs need as much help as they can get right now. Downs is known for his prowess as a third-down specialist in the slot, and while he may not be a vertical threat, he can give Patrick Mahomes someone to turn to keep the chains moving.
Granted, trading for Downs will come at a steep price, both now and in the future. He hasn't signed an extension, and he's due for a big contract after this season; the Chiefs will have to do some financial juggling to make the numbers work.
Also, while they can probably get him for a third-or fourth-round pick, given that he's on an expiring deal, multiple teams will be interested. As such, Brett Veach will probably have to be extremely aggressive in his pursuit.
That said, this is the type of move that can turn an already explosive running game into the best in the league. The Chiefs already have the best quarterback in pro football, so they might as well also give him the best weapons they can possibly find.
