New Chiefs Rumors on 'Big-Name' WR Pursuit Amid Brian Thomas Jr., Josh Downs Trade Buzz

The Kansas City Chiefs are assessing their options at wide receiver ahead of the NFL's trade deadline, according to The Athletic's Jonathan Jones .

Jones reported that Kansas City is looking for a "big-name receiver" but have been "checking on everyone."

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs has been the player most frequently linked to Kansas City. Downs has provided the Colts with consistent production since he was selected in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, but Indianapolis is clearly looking to sell off any valuable assets to acquire draft capital. Downs has 30 receptions for 330 yards and one touchdown through eight games this season.

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. has also been floated in trade rumors. The Jaguars have been hesitant to trade Thomas, but teams across the league don't believe the 24-year-old will be in Jacksonville for much longer, according to Jones.

"The Jaguars have held firm in keeping wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr.," Jones wrote. "We'll see if they keep that posture after Thursday. The rest of the league seems certain the Jags will part with Thomas."

Thomas, a first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, compiled 87 receptions for 1,282 receiving yards with 10 touchdowns in his rookie campaign. With the arrival of head coach Liam Coen the following season, the 24-year-old found himself slowly being phased out of Jacksonville's offensive game plan. He played only 19 snaps during Jacksonville's 33-10 victory against the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday Night Football, and he has just one reception for 12 yards and a score over the past four games.

The Chiefs wide receiving corps has continued to plague the team. Wide receivers Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy have been inconsistent, and the Chiefs lost deep-ball threat Tyquan Thornton to a gruesome injury in Week 4. None of Kansas City's receivers have eclipsed 250 receiving yards or caught more than two touchdowns this season.

The Chiefs offense has largely been effective due to its rushing attack, but a legitimate receiving threat could significantly help elevate the Chiefs offense.