Josh Downs has been one of the most consistent weapons in the Indianapolis Colts offense during his second season in the league.

Regardless of whether the Colts put Anthony Richardson or Joe Flacco under center, it doesnt seem to matter for the shifty slot receiver.

In a tumultuous season for the Colts at the games most important position, Downs has been a bright spot making plays all over the field.

Unfortunately, Downs suffered a shoulder injury during the Week 12 game against the Detroit Lions.

Josh Downs injury update

While Downs was able to return and finish the game, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported Monday that the shifty slot receiver is a long shot to play in Week 13 against the New England Patriots.

Rapoport reported that Downs is week-to-week with the shoulder injury, which means theres a chance that the Colts play it safe and hold him out through the Week 14 bye.

Down 21-6 against the Lions early in the fourth quarter, Downs took a tap pass from Richardson for seven yards. As he was tackled by Lions linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez, Downs was in immediate pain.

Clutching his shoulder in clear pain, the Colts announced shortly after that Downs is questionable to return with a shoulder injury.

Downs ability to win quickly from the slot while making plays downfield is a vital component of the passing game.

If Downs is going to miss this crucial game against the Patriots, its likely that rookie Adonai Mitchell will get more snaps in the slot while Michael Pittman Jr. and Alec Pierce work o the outside.