Colts Film Breakdown: Nick Westbrook-Ikhine and the Future of the Z-Receiver

Dec 15, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Miami Dolphins wide receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine (18) takes the field against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images | Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images Colts signed Nick Westbrook-Ikhine to add to their WR corps on a 1-year $1. 2M deal.

The Colts decision to part ways with Pittman was much more of a financial decision than a football decision, but I am curious on what the Colts’ plan for the Z-receiver is. Michael Pittman was known for his toughness and reliability. He had a high catch % and could use his size, strength, and large frame in order to make contested catches.

He was a solid compliment to Pierce, because Pierce could “lift the coverage” of the defense and create room for Michael Pittman to keep the Colts ahead of the sticks. It would be silly of me not to acknowledge Pittman’s intangibles that I can’t see on film. He was obviously loved in the locker room, fought through numerous injuries to play on Sundays, and was the ultimate teammate.

That is not something that is easy to replace. However, Pittman’s skillset and production, in my opinion is something that is much easier to find. Unfortunately, after numerous injuries, it felt apparent that Pittman was a descending player that was no longer worth the price tag.