The San Francisco 49ers may not be done making moves before the NFL trade deadline. After acquiring defensive tackle DeForest Buckner from the Indianapolis Colts for a fourth-round draft pick, general manager John Lynch may have another Indianapolis player on his radar.

Wide receiver Josh Downs reportedly requested a trade this week, and the Colts appear willing to listen to offers as they consider making significant changes to their roster. There is already some speculation connecting Downs to the 49ers. Now we have a better idea of what it might take to get a deal done.


According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Colts are seeking a third-round draft pick in exchange for Downs. That's a lofty asking price, particularly considering San Francisco has already surrendered its fourth-round pick to bring Buckner back to the Bay Area. Would Lynch be willing to part with another mid-round pick?

Why it makes sense


Downs is still just 25 years old and has continued to develop into a productive receiver during his time in Indianapolis. Through seven games this season, he has 26 receptions for 307 yards on 46 targets. He has yet to score a touchdown, but he's averaging 11.8 yards per reception.

He's also been asked to take on a larger role following an injury to fellow Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce. The appeal for the 49ers is pretty obvious. Downs is a versatile receiver who could give Brock Purdy another reliable option in the passing game. His ability to work underneath and create separation would give Shanahan another weapon to use against opposing defenses.

And with the 49ers already lining up other playmakers, Downs wouldn't necessarily have to carry a heavy workload. That's part of what makes the potential fit so interesting. Defenses would have a difficult time accounting for all of those weapons.

Why it doesn't make sense



The 49ers have other options. Downs isn't the only receiver who could become available before the November 10 trade deadline, and those players may require less draft capital. Other names reportedly drawing interest include Brian Thomas Jr., Calvin Ridley, Hollywood Brown, and Jerry Jeudy. Former 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings was on this list, and the 49ers reportedly had a deal in place to bring him back, but the wide receiver decided he didn't want to return.


San Francisco will have to determine which player offers the best combination of talent, contract situation, and acquisition cost. A third-round pick isn't necessarily an unreasonable price for a young receiver with Downs' potential. But it does seem a little high, and the 49ers also have to be mindful of how many draft resources they're willing to spend on this roster.

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Marc Adams


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