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Colts Rookies McGowan and Burks Set for Breakout if Taylor and Downs Are Traded

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Colts Rookies McGowan and Burks Set for Breakout if Taylor and Downs Are Traded
Photo: Oct 25, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor (28) reacts after rushing for a touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings in the first half at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images | IMAG

The Indianapolis Colts are approaching the trade deadline on November 10, and the team has already moved on from long‑time guard Quenton Nelson and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner. Two remaining stars who could be traded are running back Jonathan Taylor and wide receiver Josh Downs. If the Colts decide to part with Taylor and Downs, two rookies—running back Seth McGowan and wide receiver Deion Burks—would gain significant opportunities.

Seth McGowan was selected 237th overall in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft. After legal troubles that led to his dismissal from the Oklahoma Sooners in 2021, McGowan played for New Mexico State in 2024 and finished his college career with the Kentucky Wildcats, recording 725 rushing yards, 126 receiving yards, and 12 rushing touchdowns. Indianapolis chose McGowan over DJ Giddens to be the backup behind Taylor. In the first part of the season, he has carried the ball 37 times for 163 yards and 10 first downs, but has yet to score a touchdown. If Taylor is traded, McGowan would become the starting running back and could establish himself as the team's primary back.

Deion Burks was drafted 254th overall in the same round as McGowan. Burks is known for his exceptional speed, which can create separation from defenders. In 48 college games, he averaged 11.1 yards per catch, but his speed suggests he can cause problems in the open field. In the current season, Burks has caught five passes for 60 yards, run the ball three times for 21 yards, and returned five kicks for 110 yards. He has been used in the slot on 11 of his 42 passing snaps. If Downs is traded, Burks would likely see increased playing time, moving him around the offense and giving him more opportunities to exploit his speed.

Without Downs, the Colts’ receiver room would consist of Keenan Allen, Laquon Treadwell, Ashton Dulin, Anthony Gould, and Burks. Allen has performed well without Alec Pierce, Treadwell has had a respectable season, and Dulin and Gould are primarily special‑teamers. Burks would become the fastest and most dangerous receiver on the roster, providing the offense with a new weapon.

The Colts’ coaching staff and front office have highlighted the potential for McGowan and Burks to step into larger roles if the team moves on from Taylor and Downs. Their performances could shape the direction of the Colts as they continue to rebuild under head coach Shane Steichen.

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