Michael Pittman Jr.’s Future with the Colts Hangs in the Balance—What’s Next Could Change Everything

Michael Pittman Jr.’s Future with the Colts Hangs in the Balance—What’s Next Could Change Everything

If those two contracts get done — and all signs point in that direction — the Colts are looking at roughly $50 million in cap commitments for 2026 between the quarterback and Pierce alone. That number doesn’t include extensions for other young players, depth signings, or injury buffers. It’s simply the cost of maintaining the offensive core.

When you view Pittman’s $29 million cap hit through that lens, the math changes quickly. Cutting or trading him clears approximately $24 million in space if done before the new league year, while absorbing about $5 million in dead cap. If the move is made after the league year begins, the Colts would eat roughly $7 million in dead money and save around $22 million. Either way, it’s a significant net gain in flexibility.

That isn’t marginal relief. That’s the lever that makes the rest of the offseason possible.

This isn’t about questioning Pittman as a player. He’s been durable, professional, and productive for much of his tenure. When he signed his extension, it made sense. He was the clear No. 1 receiver, the offense lacked established pass-catching depth, and stability mattered. But contracts are signed in one context and evaluated in another. The context has changed.

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