Colts get Rivers a big WR target in Pittman

The Indianapolis Colts selected wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. out of USC in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, 34th overall.

Indianapolis needed to add to its receiver group after signing Philip Rivers in free agency, and Pittman gives the veteran quarterback the type of big-bodied target he enjoyed while with the Los Angles Chargers.

The AFC South club's passing attack struggled last season with T.Y Hilton and rookie Parris Campbell sidelined with injuries.

Indianapolis was reportedly considering trading down from No. 34 but ultimately stood pat and will pick again at No. 44.

Prospect Profile

School: USC
Height: 6-4
Weight: 223 lbs

Positives

• Massive frame
• Good top-end speed for a receiver of his size
• Precise route-runner with surprising quickness and change of direction
• Uses size to shield off defenders on short routes
• Tracks the ball well downfield
• At his best above the rim in contested situations
• Attacks the ball with strong hands at the catch point
• Good run-blocker

Negatives

• Build up required to get to top speed
• Doesn't create much separation
• Will need to refine his release at the line
• Doesn't add much playmaking ability after the catch
• Played almost exclusively on the left side of the field

Bottom Line

Pittman is a tall, well-built receiver with the ability to dominate defensive backs at the catch point and looks like a typical jump-ball specialist who can excel in the red zone. But that's not all there is to his game. With more speed and quickness than you might expect, as well as the route-running ability not often seen from receiver prospects of his size, he's got the upside of an all-around pass-catcher. Pittman is a scary matchup for defensive backs.