Colts Drafting Michael Pittman Could Mark End of TY Hilton's Time in Indianapolis
By Mark Powell
Michael Pittman Jr. entered the 2020 NFL Draft as one of the more underrated wide receivers in his class, with some experts predicting he'd fall into the third round.
Not so fast, my friends. The Colts have found real value at No. 34, and by selecting the big USC Trojans pass-catcher could even signal the end of the TY Hilton era in Indy.
With the 34th overall selection in the 2020 NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts select...
— PFF (@PFF) April 24, 2020
Michael Pittman Jr., WR, USC pic.twitter.com/5Q81LwvEEE
Hilton is coming off an injury-plagued 2019 season, and is set to make over $14 million in his contract year. While his name was floated in potential trade opportunities leading up to the draft, it's unlikely the Colts will be able to get equal value for the former Pro Bowler.
Instead, they should consider this a year in transition for Pittman, as the former Trojan adjusts to the NFL as a solid No. 2 behind Hilton in Frank Reich's offense. Such a timeline could also line up with Philip Rivers' career arc, as his stay in Indianapolis isn't guaranteed to last more than one season.
The #Colts at No. 34 go WR as well, selecting #USC WR Michael Pittman Jr., a big and strong pass-catching with just as strong bloodlines.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 24, 2020
Hilton's days as a top wideout appear to be behind him, and as is the case so often in the NFL, he's no longer worth his price tag. The addition of Pittman all but makes that official.