Michael Pittman Jr. is expected to miss multiple weeks due to a lingering left foot injury, according to Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy. This setback complicates the Pittsburgh Steelers' plans as they prepare for Sunday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts, the team that traded him away. Pittman has already missed one game this season for the same issue, raising concerns about his availability and the effectiveness of the trade intended to bolster the Steelers' offense.
In the three games he has played, Pittman has caught seven passes for 89 yards, averaging just 7.4 yards per target, with a low quarterback rating of 46.9 when targeted by Aaron Rodgers. The Steelers now face the challenge of evaluating the trade's value against Pittman's limited production and ongoing injury issues, which have led some to label the move a costly mistake.
Conversely, the Colts may feel validated by Pittman's absence, framing the situation as a confirmation of their decision to trade him. As the Steelers grapple with the implications of his injury, the trade is being scrutinized from both sides, highlighting the risks associated with acquiring a player who struggles to stay on the field.