It's time for the Colts to pay Michael Pittman Jr.
Michael Pittman Jr. shared in a recent Indianapolis Colts "directors cut" video that at the beginning of the season, head coach Shane Steichen gave every starter a role for the season. The role given to Pittman Jr. was "The Enforcer." He described this role by saying, "The tone setter, the enforcer, the guy that is […]
Michael Pittman Jr. shared in a recent Indianapolis Colts "directors cut" video that at the beginning of the season, head coach Shane Steichen gave every starter a role for the season.
The role given to Pittman Jr. was "The Enforcer." He described this role by saying, "The tone setter, the enforcer, the guy that is bringing it all the time." A perfectly assigned role for Pittman Jr.'s playstyle and personality. And I think the first three weeks of the season have shown us it is time for the Colts to pay their enforcer.
Pittman Jr. has been dealt a tough hand during his time with the Colts, as he has had a different QB every season he's been in the league. This year though, things feel different in Indianapolis. The Colts finally drafted a rookie QB with their first-round pick Anthony Richardson. And the team's plan is for him to be the starter for the foreseeable future.
The Colts put a pause on all offensive extension talks so they could see how players look in head coach Shane Steichen's offense. After three weeks, there are three reasons why Pittman Jr. has earned the first offensive extension of the group.
Big Play Ability:
Pittman Jr. has made multiple big catches for the Colts during his career and has already done so this season. The team's trust in him to make a big play when odds are stacked against him shows that they see the value he offers.
The first big play this season came off a screen of all plays where Pittman Jr. took it to the house for a touchdown.
And, of course, his incredible catch from this week's game in Baltimore.
His ability to make these level of plays are up there with any WR in the NFL. Replacing that ability if he were to leave the Colts would be very difficult. This is something they have to consider when choosing whether or not to extend their top WR.
Consistency:
Michael Pittman Jr. has been the Colts most consistent WR during his time with the team, but this year, his consistency goes beyond just the Colts as Pittman Jr. is the only player in the entire NFL to have 8+ catches in every game this season.
Through the first three weeks of the season, Pittman Jr. has had these stat lines:
Week 1: 8 receptions, 97 yards, 1 touchdown
Week 2: 8 receptions, 56 yards
Week 3: 9 receptions, 77 yards
Team Player:
As said earlier, the Colts made the decision before the season that they would put a pause on all extension negotiations for players on the offensive side of the ball. The reason was they wanted to see how players looked and fit in head coach Shane Steichen's offense.
We have seen Jonathan Taylor and his representation take his very vocal approach against the Colts because of this, but I believe it is more important to bring light to how Michael Pittman Jr. has operated. Pittman Jr. was asked earlier this offseason about his mindset going into the final year of his contract, and he had this to say.
"Do I expect it? I dont really expect nothing really. If it happens it happens. If it doesnt happen yes I would play it out without an extension."
– Colts WR Michael Pittman Jr.
That has been exactly what he has done. I believe it is time to repay not just the player that Micahel Pittman Jr. has been but also the person. He's put his nose down and has let his play convince the Colts to pay him. And I believe through all of these reasons, he has earned to be the first offensive player extended.
Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen shared his thoughts on their recent win on The Pat McAfee Show
Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen joined The Pat McAfee Show to discuss their win in Baltimore as well as his thoughts on his team so far this season.
Featured Image By: Brent Skeen-USA TODAY Sports
