Best 2021 NFL breakout candidate from every team

By Randy Gurzi | Jun 28, 2021

ASHBURN, VA - JUNE 02: Ryan Fitzpatrick #14 of the Washington Football Team hands the ball off to Antonio Gibson #24 of the Washington Football Team during the organized team activity at Inova Sports Performance Center on June 2, 2021 in Ashburn, Virginia. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – SEPTEMBER 20: Michael Pittman #11 of the Indianapolis Colts points downfield after a catch for a first down during the second quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at Lucas Oil Stadium on September 20, 2020 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Bobby Ellis/Getty Images) /

Indianapolis Colts: Michael Pittman, Jr., Wide Receiver

This year, the Indianapolis Colts are putting their hopes in a former No. 2 overall pick, Carson Wentz. Taken by the Eagles in 2016, the North Dakota State product was solid early in his career and even looked to be the favorite to win the NFL MVP during his second season.

Those hopes went out the window when Wentz tore his ACL late in the season. He also had to sit and watch as his team won the Super Bowl without him — which was the beginning of the end for him in Philly.

Fans doubted Wentz from that point on and the team even drafted Jalen Hurts after signing Wentz to an extension. He was finally traded to the Colts this offseason and is now reunited with Frank Reich who was his play-caller early in his career while he was having success.

Should Wentz regain his old form working under Reich, the entire Colts offense should be better. That includes the pass-catchers with Michael Pittman, Jr. the most likely breakout candidate in their receiving corps.

As a rookie, Pittman had 40 receptions for 503 yards but just one touchdown. The second-round pick flashed plenty of potential and should be able to take the next step in his progression this year.

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