For the first time since 2013, the Indianapolis Colts have decided to use the franchise tag.
The Colts placed the franchise tag on wide receiver Pittman Jr. this Tuesday. He’s coming off a season where he hauled in 109 passes for 1,152 yards and four touchdowns.
Believe it or not, the last time the Colts used the franchise tag it was to retain former All-Pro punter Pat McAfee.
“First time the Colts have used the franchise tag since 2013 with …. Pat McAfee,” ESPN’s Adam Schefter said.
Clearly, the team wanted to keep Pittman in Indianapolis for at least one more season. Head coach Shane Steichen said, “We love everything about him, and we want him to be a Colt.”
Since entering the NFL in 2020, Pittman has racked up 336 catches for 3,662 yards and 15 touchdowns.
The Colts reportedly discussed a long-term extension with Pittman’s camp prior to using the franchise tag on him. It’s unclear if the two sides were close to finding a middle ground.
If Pittman fails to sign an extension this offseason, he’ll earn $21.8 million from the franchise tag. That’s not a bad consolation prize, but every player in their prime would love some long-term security.
For now, there’s still plenty of time for the Colts to lock up Pittman for the long haul.