Indianapolis Colts: Michael Pittman Jr. Has Grown Into A WR1
Indianapolis Colts receiver Michael Pittman Jr. has taken a big step in year two, and proving he’s a WR1.
The Indianapolis Colts were in desperate need of receiver help back in the 2020 NFL Draft, and selected wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. with the second pick on day two, at 34th overall. Pittman had a very good career at USC, where he caught 101 passes for 1,275 yards and 11 touchdowns in his final season. Chris Ballard has preferred Senior Bowl players and team captains, which made him a good fit in the draft along with that impressive production.
Pittman Jr. had a solid rookie campaign, where he passed the 500-yard mark while also catching a long touchdown against the Packers where he had open space after the catch. His work in space in the quick game was evident as a rookie, and he made strides toward the end of the season in terms of his ability to separate as a route runner.
Things have taken a major step up in 2021 for Pittman. He’s had two games over the 100 yard mark, and he’s surpassed his 2020 totals in terms of yardage and touchdowns in just half the time. His game against Tennessee on Sunday was a perfect example of the step he’s taken. Pittman has been a consistent separator in the short and intermediate areas of the field, and that contributed to his two touchdowns on Sunday.
The biggest thing for Pittman Jr. though is how much he’s succeeded at the catch point. At 6’4″ and 223 pounds, his size and frame is built to succeed in that area of the game. It’s not something that most receivers can hang their hat on in the NFL, but Pittman’s confidence has grown this season and he’s winning in multiple areas. The past two games, Pittman has made big time plays in contested spots, including a touchdown against the 49ers and a 38-yard reception in crunch time against the Titans, in which there were several defenders in the area.
The success at the catch point, combined with his ability to separate quickly and win after the catch, has made Michael Pittman Jr. a force in all three phases of his game as a wide receiver. His growth has been excellent, and he’s been worth that second round pick for the Indianapolis Colts and more. He should be their clear-cut WR1 going forward.