Michael Pittman Jr.’s position with the Indianapolis Colts is less stable than it appeared a year ago, although this uncertainty has nothing to do with his on-field performance. Despite a strong statistical showing in 2025, financial considerations cast doubt on his future in the organization. The wide receiver led the Colts with 80 receptions, 111 targets, and a personal best of seven touchdowns, yet his 784 receiving yards were his lowest since his rookie year in 2020. Meanwhile, teammate Alec Pierce topped 1,000 receiving yards and emerged as the team’s primary deep threat.
Financial Factors Fuel Speculation About Pittman’s Future
While Pittman Jr. remains a proven and valuable player, monetary constraints are driving trade rumors. In 2026, he faces a $29 million cap hit—the final year of his three-year, $70 million contract extension—consisting of a $22 million base salary and a $2 million roster bonus due early in the season. These figures have sparked talk of potential salary cap casualties, making the team’s commitment to him uncertain. When asked about Pittman at the Combine Media Day, Colts General Manager Chris Ballard was quick to defend the wideout.
Michael Pittman’s a really good football player,
Ballard said. He continued,
We love Michael. He’s been here his whole career. He’s a really good player. He’s a pro. He’s got a great work ethic. He’s got a great attitude. He’s one of those guys you love having in your building. Michael’s under contract. We’re excited about what he can do for us moving forward. He’s a big part of what we’re doing here.
Pittman’s Passion Beyond Football: Becoming a Licensed Pilot
However, Ballard surprised many when he revealed a less known fact about Pittman’s off-field interests.
I don’t know if y’all knew this,
Ballard remarked with a smile,
he’s a pilot now. I knew he was dabbling with it, but I didn’t know he was going up in the air and flying solo and doing all that.
Alongside his brother Mycah, Pittman Jr. co-founded Blitz Aviation, a flight school dedicated to making flight training accessible and well-structured. According to their company’s mission statement,
Blitz Aviation was founded by [the brothers] with a simple mission: to make flight training accessible to everyone.
Mycah has completed several ratings in under a year, including private pilot, instrument, commercial, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), and Certified Flight Instructor-Instrument (CFII). Michael has followed a similar journey, earning his private pilot’s license and currently pursuing additional certifications. This isn’t a casual pastime but a serious passion he has pursued for over two years.
Looking Ahead: What Pittman’s Pilot Credentials Mean for His NFL Future
Despite the excitement surrounding his aviation accomplishments, this does not clarify Pittman’s long-term standing with the Colts. Ballard’s mention of Pittman’s pilot status seemed to evade direct discussions about possible contract restructuring or a trade, yet an outright release appears unlikely given Pittman’s value and contract status.
For now, Pittman remains signed with Indianapolis and shows no indication of wanting to leave. From the team’s perspective, retaining him provides continuity and experience essential to their future plans. In times of uncertainty, it is at least reassuring that Michael Pittman Jr. has the skills to “land the plane” both literally and figuratively.
Colts GM Chris Ballard was asked about Michael Pittman’s future with the team.
“I don’t know if ya’ll knew this, you know he’s a pilot now, I knew he was dabbling with it, but I didn’t know he was going up in the air and flying soloand doing all that.”
— Polymarket Football (@PolymarketBlitz) February 25, 2026
