Thus far in his career, Pittman is sitting with 18 receiving touchdowns. His receptions per contest and yards per contest average are 0.8 and 8.9 yards. He has a total of 4,470 yards with an average of 11.0 yards/reception. His catch percentage sits at 67.7% and he got there by catching 405 of the 598 throws that went his way. Michael Pittman Jr. has stepped onto the gridiron in 503 games in his career. Michael Pittman Jr., a name that resonates with NFL fans, has quickly made a mark in professional football. Known for his athletic prowess and exceptional skills on the field, Pittman has become a key player for the Indianapolis Colts. This article delves into his NFL journey, his stats, and what makes him stand out in the league.
Early Life and College Success
Before making waves in the NFL, Michael Pittman Jr. honed his skills at the University of Southern California (USC). Born in 1997, Pittman was destined to be an athlete, following in the footsteps of his father, Michael Pittman Sr., a former NFL running back. At USC, Pittman showcased his talent and quickly became a standout wide receiver.
College Stats and Achievements
During his college career, Pittman Jr. accumulated impressive stats. Over four seasons at USC, he recorded 171 receptions for 2,519 yards and 19 touchdowns. His performance in his senior year was particularly notable, as he caught 101 passes for 1,275 yards and 11 touchdowns, earning him first-team All-Pac-12 honors.
Pittman’s college success laid a strong foundation for his entry into the NFL, and his draft profile was one that many teams had their eyes on.
NFL Draft and Entry into the League
2020 NFL Draft Profile
In the 2020 NFL Draft, Pittman Jr.’s profile was highly regarded. Scouts were impressed by his size, strength, and catching ability. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 223 pounds, he was seen as a receiver who could win contested catches and excel in the red zone. His draft profile highlighted his route-running precision and ability to break tackles, making him a desirable pick for many teams.
Draft Day and Joining the Colts
The Indianapolis Colts selected Michael Pittman Jr. in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, making him the 34th overall pick. The Colts saw in Pittman a player who could make an immediate impact, and he was quickly integrated into their offensive plans.
Michael Pittman Jr.’s NFL Career
Rookie Year: 2020 Season
Pittman Jr. had a promising start to his NFL career during the 2020 season. He appeared in 13 games, starting in 8 of them. Despite some early-season injuries, he managed to accumulate 40 receptions for 503 yards and 1 touchdown. His performance was highlighted by a standout game against the Tennessee Titans, where he caught 7 passes for 101 yards.
Building Momentum: 2021 Season
In his second year, Pittman Jr. took significant strides forward. He played in all 17 games, starting each one, and became a primary target for Colts quarterback Carson Wentz. By the end of the season, Pittman had recorded 88 receptions for 1,082 yards and 6 touchdowns. His consistency and ability to make big plays were instrumental in the Colts’ offensive success.
Key Attributes and Playing Style
Physical Attributes
Michael Pittman Jr.’s physical attributes are a major part of his success. His height and strength allow him to dominate in contested catch situations. He is known for his ability to shield defenders and make tough catches, which is crucial in the NFL’s competitive environment.
Playing Style and Skills
Pittman’s playing style is characterized by his precise route running and strong hands. He excels in making plays after the catch, often breaking tackles and gaining extra yards. His versatility allows him to be effective in various offensive schemes, whether it’s in short-yardage situations or stretching the field with deep routes.
Impact on the Indianapolis Colts
Michael Pittman Jr. has quickly become an integral part of the Colts’ offense. His ability to perform consistently has made him a reliable option for the quarterback. As he continues to develop, Pittman is expected to play a crucial role in the Colts’ pursuit of success in the NFL.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Pittman Jr.’s future in the NFL appears bright. With each season, he continues to refine his skills and improve his performance. As he gains more experience, he is poised to become one of the league’s top wide receivers.
Conclusion
Michael Pittman Jr.’s NFL career is off to a strong start, and his journey is one that fans and analysts alike are eager to follow. From his college days at USC to his burgeoning career with the Colts, Pittman has shown that he has the talent and drive to succeed at the highest level. As he continues to grow and evolve as a player, there’s no doubt that Michael Pittman Jr. will remain a key figure in the NFL for years to come.