The Kansas City Chiefs have waived longtime wide receiver and return specialist Nikko Remigio, potentially signaling an expanded special teams role for newly acquired wide receiver Josh Downs.
The move comes one day after Kansas City acquired Downs and a 2027 seventh-round draft pick from the Indianapolis Colts ahead of Tuesday's NFL trade deadline in exchange for 2027 fourth- and fifth-round selections.
Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team reported the roster move Wednesday on X, formerly known as Twitter, suggesting that Downs could replace Remigio in the return game.
“The #Chiefs have waived WR/returner Nikko Remigio, an undrafted free agent in 2023 who returned more than 100 kicks and punts combined for the team.
“This could signal Josh Downs being used in that role.”
The #Chiefs have waived WR/returner Nikko Remigio, an undrafted free agent in 2023 who returned more than 100 kicks and punts combined for the team.
This could signal Josh Downs being used in that role. https://t.co/n1jyECHDdn pic.twitter.com/Vf0Bk5ofoq
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) November 11, 2026
Remigio originally joined Kansas City as an undrafted free agent in 2023 and developed into a contributor on special teams, handling both kickoff and punt return responsibilities.
His departure creates an opening in the Chiefs' return rotation, although the organization has yet to officially announce whether Downs will assume those duties.
Chiefs could expand Josh Downs' role following Colts trade
The 25-year-old receiver brings experience as a return specialist from his time in Indianapolis, providing Kansas City with additional flexibility beyond his offensive contributions.
Downs recorded 33 receptions for 354 yards and one touchdown through nine games with the Colts this season, averaging 10.7 yards per reception.
Kansas City's decision to acquire Downs provides another receiving option for quarterback Patrick Mahomes as the team looks to strengthen its offense for a potential postseason run.
The Chiefs improved to 6-2 following their convincing 35-12 victory over the New York Jets in Week 9.
While Downs figures to contribute primarily as a slot receiver, his potential involvement on special teams could allow Kansas City to maximize his versatility.
The Chiefs will face the Atlanta Falcons (3-6) on the road in Week 10, with kickoff scheduled for Sunday at 1 p.m. ET on CBS.
Whether Downs immediately assumes return responsibilities remains uncertain, but Remigio's release suggests Kansas City could be preparing to incorporate its newest acquisition into multiple roles.