He was one of few people that was not drafted by an NHL team or a major junior team. Downey played in the NHL for six teams, the Boston Bruins for 1 game, Chicago Blackhawks for 39 games, Dallas Stars for 2 seasons, St. Louis Blues for 17 games, Montreal Canadiens for 2 seasons, and the Detroit Red Wings for 2 seasons. Since his retirement, he returned to Detroit to become a part-time strength and conditioning coach for the Red Wings and Grand Rapids Griffins.