There have been debates about whether or not Michael Pittman Jr. is a true No. 1 wide receiver in the NFL. He has been the No. 1 wideout for the Indianapolis Colts the last three seasons, but everyone has been anxious to establish his level across the entire NFL. This season, Pittman has been putting up a solid argument that he’s a clear No. 1.
His latest submission of evidence came on Sunday, in the Colts’ 27-20 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In the game, Pittman caught 10 passes for 107 yards. The fourth-year wide receiver had another dependable game, catching nearly everything that came his way— 10 of his 13 total targets. He showcased sure hands, consistently snatching the ball out the air, and making big grabs for Indianapolis.
He has been a reliable receiver, regardless of who’s at quarterback, and even with Josh Downs coming on as a dependable weapon, Pittman is still the clear No. 1 for Indianapolis, proving his value to the league.
Michael Pittman Jr. proving his worth with another big game for Colts
On the season, Pittman Jr. is now up to 76 receptions for 784 yards and three touchdowns. Pittman is on pace to significantly surpass his career highs set in 2021, when he caught 88 passes for 1,082 and six touchdowns. Pittman is also on pace for 100+ catches and 1,100+ yards, something a Colts receiver hasn’t done since Reggie Wayne did in 2012.
IMO: We spend so much time categorizing him (is he a No. 1 or No. 2?) that we gloss over the fact that all he does is produce.
— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) November 26, 2023
While the career year is helping the Colts make a playoff push, it’s also helping Michael Pittman Jr.‘s pockets. The Indianapolis Colts didn’t extend Pittman before the season, so he’ll be a free agent this upcoming offseason. Wide receivers are being paid a lot of money in today’s NFL and Pittman is definitely next in line. With his level of production this season, Pittman will receive a massive contract this offseason. Everyone is hoping that contract is with Indianapolis, because the Colts need him as their No. 1 receiver.