Colts tag WR Michael Pittman Jr.

Field Level Media|published: 03/05/2024, 3:26pm EST

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. (11) runs out of bounds as Las Vegas Raiders cornerback Brandon Facyson (31) rolls at his feet Sunday, Dec. 31, 2023, during a game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. credits: Robert Scheer/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

The Indianapolis Colts placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. on Tuesday ahead of the NFL deadline.

Pittman Jr. will be paid $21.82 million for the 2024 season if he doesn't sign a long-term contract extension before July 17.

Using the non-exclusive tag blocks Pittman's exit to free agency but permits him to discuss a contract with other teams. If Pittman signs an offer sheet, the Colts are granted refusal rights and could match the deal to retain their leading receiver. Not matching the deal would net the Colts two first-round picks in return.

General manager Chris Ballard spelled out the need for the Colts to keep Pittman when discussing free agency last week at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Pittman had a team-best 109 receptions, 1,152 yards and four TD catches in 2023. He has 336 receptions for 3,662 yards and 15 touchdowns in four seasons with the Colts.

—Field Level Media