Colts general manager to extend WR Michael Pittman’s stay on the basis that…
INDIA PARK – Michael Pittman will still be an Indianapolis Colts player in 2024, one way or another.
Colts general manager Chris Ballard made it apparent on Wednesday from the NFL Scouting Combine that the team does not intend to allow the wideout go free. Ballard stated that although the franchise tag is a backup plan, it is still a “tool” that may be used if needed.
“We’ll work hard to get a deal done,” he stated. It’s one of our tools. I won’t say that we won’t use it, but I also won’t claim that we will. Hopefully, we can work out a compromise and reach an understanding on a contract.”
Before the franchise tag deadline shuts on March 5, the Colts have until March 5 to reach a long-term agreement with their best wide receiver. Wideouts have a franchise tag of $21.816 million for 2024. Indianapolis would have until mid-July to reach a multi-year agreement if it were to deploy the tag on Pittman.
Pittman’s retention in Indianapolis is essential to the Colts’ 2024 success. In 2023, the top receiver recorded career highs of 1,152 yards and 109 receptions. He’s a quarterback’s best friend because of his ability to win off the line, make himself available, and grab everything in sight. Shane Steichen’s attack is a wonderful fit for Pittman. Long-term lockdown would guarantee that Anthony Richardson, the rookie quarterback, has a reliable veteran to develop with.
In the event that a long-term agreement is not reached during the next six days, the fallback franchise tag option allows both parties to extend their negotiations.
Ballard is aware that he needs to keep adding to the receiver corps in the meantime because injuries prevented them from playing well in 2023.
“I’ve got to a better job of helping [wide receivers coach] Reggie [Wayne] and the offensive staff,” Ballard stated. “And it was a rotational year; nothing against the players we had there competing. That’s challenging, and it puts a lot of strain on the coaches. For that one, I blame myself, not them.”
Although field stretcher Alec Pierce, youngster Josh Downs, and Pittman make up a strong trio, the Colts lacked depth, especially in the wake of Ashton Dulin’s August ACL tear. Indianapolis has the resources to bolster the corps through the draft or by adding a seasoned option through free agency.
Ballard had nothing but praise for the receiving draft class of 2024.
“Very deep. Actually, at every level,” he remarked. It’s powerful. This is a really powerful class. I’m not sure if you’ve seen them this strong, but it reminds me a lot of Pitt’s debut. With (Justin) Jefferson, (Brandon) Aiyuk, Pitt, and the top half of the draft, that year was excellent. CeeDee Lamb was in that draft, I believe. It is analogous.
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