The Chiefs are close to landing a new WR from the Colts, but the Steelers could put an end to the negotiations

The Kansas City Chiefs appear to have identified a potential solution to their wide receiver problems, but the Pittsburgh Steelers could complicate their efforts to acquire Indianapolis Colts receiver Josh Downs.

With both AFC contenders reportedly submitting offers, the race for the 25-year-old playmaker is heating up ahead of the November 10 NFL trade deadline.

According to NFL insider Evan Sidery, Kansas City and Pittsburgh have each offered Day 3 draft compensation for Downs . Indianapolis initially sought a third-round selection but could settle for a fourth- or fifth-round pick.

A deal is expected to gain momentum after the weekend, although neither interested franchise has reached an agreement.

Downs ' potential departure follows a reported trade request on October 28. Although the receiver hasn't revealed the full reasons behind his decision, his recent comments suggest he's prepared to move on from Indianapolis.

"I'm open to whatever. Whatever comes my way, comes my way and we go from there," Downs said.

Selected in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, Downs has accumulated 2,447 receiving yards across 54 career appearances. His route-running ability and effectiveness from the slot could make him a valuable addition for either contender.

Why Pittsburgh could complicate Kansas City's plans

Kansas City arguably has the stronger immediate need for another receiver. Injuries have significantly disrupted its receiving corps, while Xavier Worthy has struggled to deliver consistent production.

Adding Downs would give Patrick Mahomes another dependable underneath target and potentially improve the offense's ability to sustain drives.

The Chiefs have already seen their pursuit of another major receiving target encounter difficulties. New York Jets receiver Garrett Wilson had emerged as a potential option, but ESPN's Adam Schefter reported on Saturday that the franchise has no intention of trading him before the deadline.

Wilson's four-year, $130 million extension, which runs through 2030, makes a departure particularly difficult. His availability would've given Kansas City an opportunity to make a significant statement, but Downs could represent a more realistic alternative.

Pittsburgh, meanwhile, has its own reasons for entering the negotiations. The Steelers could use another weapon to support veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers , particularly with D.K. Metcalf carrying much of the receiving responsibility.

Although Metcalf leads the team, production behind him has been less convincing. Downs could provide Rodgers with a reliable target over the middle, helping Pittsburgh improve its passing attack during the closing stages of the season.

However, there's also a potential downside. The Steelers already have younger receivers, including Roman Wilson , who could benefit from additional opportunities. Bringing in Downs might complicate their development plans.

Indianapolis' rebuilding direction could ultimately determine the receiver's destination. Following general manager Chris Ballard's dismissal, the Colts have already traded Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner , signaling their willingness to collect future draft capital.

Downs remains on Indianapolis' roster and is expected to feature in the Week 8 game plan. However, with the trade deadline approaching, Kansas City and Pittsburgh have limited time to complete a deal.