Will Michael Pittman Jr. Play In Week 3? Fantasy Football Injury Update

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. (back) has been listed as questionable for Sunday's game.

Pittman, who showed no signs of injury earlier in the week, was added to Friday's injury report due to a back issue and missed practice. This development puts the 26-year-old's availability for Sunday in doubt.

Fantasy managers should closely monitor updates on his status throughout the weekend. He will most likely be a game-time decision ahead of Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears.

What’s up with these random late week additions to the injury report?

Michael Pittman was NOT on the report on Wednesday or Thursday.

Why are they just reporting a back and calf injury just NOW?

The only way the Colts are hiding information here is if he sustained those in… https://t.co/r80BOCxuNz pic.twitter.com/LWuAqTBNHt

— Jesse Morse, MD (@DrJesseMorse) September 20, 2024

If Michael Pittman is able to play in Week 3, he should still be inserted in your fantasy lineups, as he will still provide WR2 numbers. 

However, Pittman has struggled early this season, recording just seven catches for 52 yards over the first two weeks. If he's unable to play, fantasy managers can anticipate increased opportunities for Josh Downs (making his 2024 debut), along with Alec Pierce and rookie Adonai Mitchell, to step up on Sunday. 

Once healthy, Pittman should be in line for a turnaround in his performance as the season progresses. Despite the slow start, Pittman is still a key part of the Colts' offense and has proven to be a reliable target in previous seasons.

Michael Pittman Jr. on his team’s performance in the first half yesterday:

“Yeah, I mean, we just got our ass whooped. That’s really it. Every aspect of it. We just gotta go back and look at it and get better.”

(You can also see DeForest Buckner limp by on crutches.)

🎥 #Colts pic.twitter.com/EzIDSyEVXQ

— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) September 16, 2024

As the chemistry with Anthony Richardson improves and he regains full health, his target share and production should increase.

Pittman’s ability to create separation and make contested catches will allow him to bounce back and deliver more consistent fantasy numbers for the remainder of the year.

Fantasy managers should prepare for Pittman to miss this week but should keep a close eye on his progress this weekend before making final roster decisions.