Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman is working through a back injury, and the team will monitor it closely throughout the week, said head coach Shane Steichen on Wednesday.
#Colts HC Shane Steichen says the team will monitor WR Michael Pittman Jr. (back) this week. Steichen wouldn't say if Pittman would practice today, so I'll just look with my own eyes in a couple hours.
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) October 16, 2024
A week ago, Pittman was added to the Colts’ injury report with this back injury. At one point, it was reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter that the injury could force Pittman to miss “multiple weeks” and that injured reserve could be a possibility.
However, after consulting with medical professionals and his dad, Pittman decided to push through the pain and not only returned to practice last Friday, but played on Sunday in Tennessee and came through with some big receptions in key moments.
According to George Bremer of CNHI Sports Indiana, Pittman came out of Sunday’s game in “good shape.”
This bit of uncertainty each week around Pittman’s status may just become the norm for the time being. This very much feels like a fluid situation that can change from week-to-week depending on how Pittman is feeling.
“We did consider every single option,” Pittman said via ESPN. “And, honestly, [injured reserve] is still not off the table. But as long as I’m feeling, like, good and I can go out there and win routes, then I’ll be out there.”
Pittman finished Sunday’s game with three receptions for 35 yards and a score. In addition to the jump ball touchdown grab, Pittman also converted a key first down late, that allowed the Colts to run most of the remaining time off the clock.
As of Wednesday morning, Steichen did not say whether or not Pittman would be practicing today.