Colts' Pittman aiming to prove he's a No. 1 receiver

After doubling most of his stats in his second year with the Indianapolis Colts, Michael Pittman Jr. is aiming higher in 2022.

"I'm just trying to take the next step," Pittman said, according to Joel A. Erickson of The Indianapolis Star. "Last year, I said that I was going to double every single category, and I did that. This year, I'm trying to build on that and become that definite receiver No. 1 that everybody talks about."

Last season, Pittman led the Colts with 88 receptions for 1,082 yards and six touchdowns. His output was more than double his rookie totals when he produced 40 receptions for 503 yards and one score in 2020.

The former second-round pick displayed his playmaking ability within a Colts offense that leaned on its rushing attack in 2021. With Indy being led by Jonathan Taylor, the passing attack took a backseat toward the end of the season.

Pittman enters his third year in the league as the Colts' most established wideout among a group that features Parris Campbell and rookie Alec Pierce.

"I'm only going into Year 3 now, but I'm the elder," Pittman said.

The 24-year-old is expected to be a preferred target for quarterback Matt Ryan, who was brought in to replace Carson Wentz this offseason.

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