The Indianapolis Colts brought in two explosive players to the offense during the 2020 NFL Draft. One of them was running back Jonathan Taylor. The other was wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., both of which were taken in the second round.
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When looking at the 2020 Offensive Rookie of the Year Award, there are several candidates worthy of winning the accolade. Based on opportunity, scheme and talent, Doug Farrar of Touchdown Wire compiled a list of 15 players who are the best bets to win the award.
Pittman Jr. came in at No. 9 on the list. Here’s what Farrar had to say:
Pittman was another receiver who was relatively lost in such a deep class at the position, but there’s no overlooking his production for USC in 2019 — 101 catches for 1,275 yards and 11 touchdowns. He’ll now be in a Frank Reich-led offense that has always been favorable to complete receivers who can run complementary routes, and that’s exactly what Pittman brings to the table. Expect him to be Philip Rivers’ new best friend.
Given the landing spots of several wide receivers in the draft, Pittman Jr. has among the best opportunity in the class. With just T.Y. Hilton ahead of him on the depth chart, Pittman Jr. can quickly carve out a role for himself as the WR2 in the offense.
The Colts were enamored by Pittman Jr. throughout the draft process. They knew early on he was going to be one of their favorite selections. They have goals of him being the WR1 after Hilton’s playing days are through.
Pittman Jr. is a wonderful fit for the Colts as their X receiver and his size, contested-catch ability and footwork make him a potential favorite target for Rivers.
It will be interesting to see how quickly the Colts can get him to make an impact, but he has a chance to be one of the more productive Year 1 wide receivers.
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