Colts Star Michael Pittman Jr. Knows He's No Longer in the Colts' Future Plans and Could Be Traded to an AFC Rival, So He Voluntarily Reduces His Salary to Stay with the Colts, Saving $12 Million in Cap Space
Indianapolis Colts is gearing up for a potentially transformative 2026 season, and one of the most important pieces of news involving the team is that Michael Pittman Jr., the star wide receiver, has voluntarily agreed to reduce his salary in order to remain with the team. This move could save the Colts $12 million in cap space while still keeping Pittman in the fold.

According to sources from Spotrac and OverTheCap, Pittman signed a 3-year, $70 million extension with the Colts in March 2024 after receiving the franchise tag. However, his current contract created a cap hit of $29 million for the 2026 season, the highest cap hit on the team and ranking him among the top 7-9 wide receivers in the NFL for that year. This has led the Indianapolis Colts to reassess their long-term plans with Pittman, especially with rumors circulating that he could be traded to a rival in the AFC, specifically to the Denver Broncos.

In response to these possibilities, Michael Pittman Jr. took the initiative to reduce his salary in order to help the team free up cap space. He agreed to cut his salary from $22 million down to $10 million for the 2026 season. This move will save the Colts $12 million in cap space while allowing Pittman to continue playing for the team he loves.
While there may be changes in the future, Pittman shared that he does not want to leave Indianapolis Colts, the team that has been his home throughout his NFL career. He said: “I love this team, love this city, and I don’t want to one day be standing on the field as an opponent against my teammates. I will never consider myself an enemy of the Colts because this is where I belong, and I will give everything for this team.”

Pittman’s message not only reflects his deep love for the Colts, but it is also a strong commitment to remain an integral part of the team’s roster. He doesn’t want to just be a player on another team; he wants to continue being an essential part of the Indianapolis Colts’ success.
Although the trade rumors involving the Denver Broncos are still just that — rumors — Pittman’s decision to reduce his salary shows his strong commitment to the team and his love for Indianapolis. With this sacrifice, Pittman is not only securing his place in the team but also serving as a role model for younger players and Colts fans.
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