Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. is coming off his best season since entering the league, proving to be a vital cog in Shane Steichen’s offense. Now, it’s time to get paid.
Having completed the final year of his rookie contract, Pittman is going to see an incredible uptick in salary regardless of how the offseason shakes out. The odds state that Pittman will be wearing the horseshoe when it’s all said and done, but that doesn’t mean he’s automatically returning.
The former second-round pick told reporters after the Colts’ season ended that he wants to see what kind of offers he can get for his next contract.
“As of right now until March whatever, I’m still a Colt,” Pittman said last week. “But speaking to the contract stuff, I made it this far so – I’ve loved my four years here, but I wouldn’t be doing my due diligence if I didn’t explore every option and find the best fit.”
In theory, that’s all fine and good. In reality, players with Pittman’s talent, production and value don’t hit the market. This is especially true at the wide receiver position, which is increasing in value every offseason.
Pittman may want to see what the free agent market has to offer, but unless both sides are wildly far apart during contract negotiations over the next month, he likely won’t even get the chance to test the waters.
First, the Colts have enough salary cap space to give Pittman a market-level deal north of $20 million annually. Having quarterback Anthony Richardson on a rookie contract gives them that type of flexibility.
Second, the Colts have the franchise tag in their back pocket. Even if they’d prefer to get him under contract, they can use that tool to extend the negotiations until the middle of July if they decide to apply the franchise tag before the new league year arrives March 13.
Depending on what type of tag the Colts apply to Pittman in this hypothetical scenario, it could bar other teams from even approaching him with a contract offer. That’s if they use the exclusive franchise tag.
Third, there’s truly no reason a deal shouldn’t get done. The Colts value Pittman, and he’s been one of the most productive wide receivers in franchise history to begin a career.
General manager Chris Ballard had no issues telling the media how he feels about Pittman.
“I care deeply about him. We have a really good relationship. It’s an honest one – almost too honest I think sometimes. But that’s what I love about him. The guy is competitive. He’s tough. He cares. He wants to win. We’re going to work to get him back. We’ll work through that. I know we’re going to have a few free agents you’re all going to want to talk about, and I’m probably going to give you the same answer. I would like to have them all back, but it doesn’t work that way. It’s just the nature of what we do. Pitt is a good football player for us, and hopefully he still remains a Colt.”
The Colts are the only team that can negotiate with Pittman until the legal tampering period opens March 11, so there’s plenty of time for a deal to get done.
We’ll keep you updated on the latest news regarding those contract talks between the Colts and their star wide receiver.