The Indianapolis Colts have a huge decision looming, as arguably their best and most consistent player on the roster is set to hit free agency. Colts wide receiver Micheal Pittman Jr., is scheduled to be a free agent in the coming weeks, but general manager Chris Ballard has already made it clear that Pittman will either be extended or franchise tagged.
If Pittman is extended, he is expected to command a large contract that will put him amongst the top paid players at his position. Obviously, the franchise would like to keep Pittman in Indianapolis so he could continue to support to Anthony Richardson for the foreseeable future. Even with Pittman remaining in Indianapolis, the Colts will still need to add more receivers.
The two big receiver names are now off the board, with Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans signing an extension and Cincinnati Bengals receiver Tee Higgins getting the franchise tag. Have to imagine the Colts would have inquired about the availability of both of them.
The 2024 receiver draft class is said to be one of the deepest ever, so the Colts may look to find another asset for Richardson in the draft. As far as free agency goes, here are some veteran depth options that the franchise might look to sign.
Free agent receivers Colts can sign for depth
Josh Reynolds
The first of two Lions receivers Indy might look at. Bringing in Josh Reynolds would be a great depth piece for the roster but he can also be productive. While he did have huge drop in the NFC Championship game, he had arguably his best statistical season of his career in 2023. He finished with 40 catches for 608 yards and a career-high five touchdowns.
Reynolds is not a number one guy by any means, but he can provide support. He is a much cheaper option than other free agent receivers, as well, as he wouldn’t command WR1 money.
Donovan Peoples-Jones
The second Lions receiver would be Donovan Peoples-Jones. After a career year in 2022 with the Cleveland Browns, he was traded to the Lions this past season and was stuck in a full receiver room and hardly saw any action. While he struggled to get on the field in Detroit, Peoples-Jones brings some attributes to the table the Colts would value.
He is a terrific blocker and he has played special teams in the past as a returner. With the status of Ashton Dulin’s return unclear, Peoples-Jones would allow Josh Downs to stop returning punts and keep him in his role as the teams No. 1 slot receiver. A fresh start with a better opportunity for contribution might be just what DPJ needs.