Michael Pittman’s comments on Carson Wentz and Jacob Eason will encourage Colts fans
By Jerry Trotta
The Indianapolis Colts were on the receiving end of some harsh criticism after they traded for Carson Wentz this offseason.
Those scorching takes centered on two narratives: he was coming off an awful year and wasn’t raved about as a leader in the Eagles’ locker room.
Well, the start of Wentz’s new journey has put at least one of those concerns to bed, as he’s received nothing but positive reviews from his Colts teammates and coaching staff thus far in terms of the impact he’s made in the locker room.
What’s even better for Colts fans? Wentz’s projected backup, Jacob Eason, has also received glowing reviews within the organization this week.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, second-year wideout Michael Pittman Jr. touched on how awesome it’s been to see Eason put his talent on display as the No. 2 QB in practice.
WR Michael Pittman says Jacob Eason is getting more reps as the No. 2 QB "so we really get to see him shine now."
— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) May 25, 2021
Michael Pittman’s comments on quarterbacks Carson Wentz and Jacob Eason will instill confidence in Colts fans.
The Colts drafted Eason in the fourth round last year, but he spent the majority of his rookie season on the outskirts of the roster. Being the third-string QB, he barely saw the field at practice and often stayed late with coaches just to familiarize himself with the playbook.
However, with Philip Rivers and Jacoby Brissett out of the picture (and assuming Indianapolis doesn’t sign another quarterback before training camp) Eason is in line for a major promotion entering Year 2, which makes it even more important he earns his teammates’ trust.
As encouraging as those comments were, Pittman didn’t stop there. When asked about the impact Wentz has made throughout the last few months, the 2020 second-round pick gloated about the former Pro Bowler’s arm strength during one of their private workouts.
Pittman also praised Wentz’s confidence, which is a great sign considering that’s been the paramount concern surrounding the newly-minted Colts quarterback after he finished near the bottom of the league in completion percentage, interceptions and passer rating last year.
Michael Pittman says of his first workout w Carson Wentz (in SoCal).... "He threw like a 65-yard post and I was like, 'Oh my gosh, I gotta dig down and really run'.... He is on a mission."
— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) May 25, 2021
We obviously won’t know for sure if Wentz rediscovered his swagger until he has a few games under his belt in a Colts uniform. However, the early signs out of spring practices suggest he’s not only in great spirits, but taking it upon himself to build chemistry with his new teammates.
If you recall the scathing reports out of Philadelphia that detailed Wentz’s supposed disengagement within the locker room, well, they look pretty foolish now. Perhaps Philly was the problem here.
Though Wentz and Eason still have a lot to prove, Pittman’s comments should make fans feel confident about the Colts’ quarterback room as we inch closer to training camp.
