Colts Lose WR Michael Pittman to Concussion

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman was on the end of a dangerous hit in the first half against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman has been ruled out the rest of the game after taking a wicked hit from Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Damontae Kazee.

Here’s another look at the Kazee hit on Michael Pittman Jr.

Pitt’s defenseless as all get out. Minshew needs to pull his punches a bit with some of these throws but this is the exact hit the NFL is trying to eliminate. Hope MPJ is alright. pic.twitter.com/DvpGkLSxRG

— Noah Compton (@nerlens_) December 16, 2023

Kazee was subsequently ejected from the game.

It didn't take long for the Colts to rule Pittman out the remainder of the contest. 

Injury update: WR Michael Pittman Jr. has been ruled out with a concussion.

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) December 16, 2023

The Colts took a 14-13 halftime lead over the Steelers but will be without their primary receiving threat the rest of the game in this crucial AFC Wildcard battle.

Pittman had been shredding the Steelers defense in the first half. He had four catches for 78 yards before being concussed. 

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Both the Colts and the Steelers entered the game 7-6. The Steelers had looked comfortable in the AFC Wildcard race before dropping back to back games against two-win teams. The Steelers lost at home to the Arizona Cardinals and New England Patriots. 

The Colts lost last week to the Cincinnati Bengals and saw the Bengals win earlier on Saturday 27-24 in overtime against the Minnesota Vikings. 

The win put the Bengals at 8-6 and temporarily above the Steelers and Colts. The winner of the Steelers at Colts matchup would take over a wildcard spot, and the Colts could pull even with the Jaguars at 8-6 if the Jaguars lose to the AFC leading Baltimore Ravens on Sunday night.

Losing Pittman will be a blow in these efforts for the Colts. He'll remain in concussion protocol through the week. Indianapolis will hope Pittman has a quick recovery and can be ready to play next week against the Atlanta Falcons.

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