Colts GM Chris Ballard weighs in on Anthony Richardson’s health and Pittman’s future

Colts general manager Chris Ballard addressed a number of topics at his presser at the NFL Combine on Wednesday, notably the status of quarterback Anthony Richardson and whether a deal can be reached with wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr.

“We’ve had talks with his agent, who is really good,” Ballard said when asked whether the team will use the franchise tag on Pittman.  “We’ll work hard to get a deal done.  It’s a tool we have.  I’m not going to say we’re not going to use it, but I’m not going to say we are.  Hopefully we can come to an agreement and find some compromise on a deal.”

As for Richardson, who suffered a season-ending injury to the AC joint in his right shoulder, Ballard said the gunslinger is ahead of schedule.

“We’re here to pull the reigns and make sure we don’t get too far ahead of schedule and are staying with whatever the doctors are telling us,” Richardson said. “He’s in good shape.  He’s throwing, he’s got a good throwing program, he’s got good people working with him.  I’m encouraged about where he’s at and where he’s going.”