Prior to Tuesday’s NFL trade deadline, the Kansas City Chiefs acquired wide receiver Josh Downs and a 2027 seventh-round pick from the Indianapolis Colts in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick.

What does this move mean for the Chiefs’ outlook going forward? Pro Football Network asked our NFL analysts to share their thoughts on the deal, and there were a wide range of reactions.

Does the Josh Downs Trade Change the Chiefs’ Outlook?

“Downs has been one of the least productive WRs in the NFL this season. In his last 26 games, he has four games with more than 60 receiving yards. The price to acquire him was minimal, so I understand the gamble, but this does absolutely nothing for me in terms of viewing the Chiefs as a better team.”

“The price reflects exactly what the deal is in terms of excitement; it feels more like an ‘add another player and hope the volume element works’ than adding a clear upgrade. If this trade helps free up Rashee Rice or clears boxes for Kenneth Walker III, it will be worthwhile without us ever really seeing the impact directly. Does it make the Chiefs bigger Super Bowl contenders? Not really.”