NEW DELHI: Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. has cleared concussion protocol after a violent hit from Pittsburgh Steelers safety Damontae Kazee during the Colts' 30-13 win. Pittman, who doesn't remember the hit, expressed mixed feelings about Kazee's actions and subsequent suspension for the rest of the season.
"I honestly never saw him coming," said Pittman.
Describing the incident, he mentioned diving for a pass, catching it, and then suddenly waking up on the turf with people looking down at him. While acknowledging that Kazee's hit seemed like "head-hunting," Pittman doesn't believe it was intentional to cause a life-changing injury. He expressed sympathy for Kazee, recognizing the hefty fine and impact on his family.
With 99 catches for 1,062 yards this season, Pittman may still be sidelined for Sunday's game against the Atlanta Falcons due to a shoulder injury. He is listed as questionable.
On a positive note for the Colts, star running back Jonathan Taylor is expected to make his return after a three-game absence due to a thumb injury. Taylor practiced in full throughout the week and carries no game designation into the weekend, enhancing the Colts' outlook for the upcoming matchup against the Falcons (6-8).
(With Reuters inputs)