Colts Could Nab National Champion Receiver in 2026 NFL Draft

Elijah Sarratt could be the middle-round target to replace Michael Pittman Jr. in Indianapolis.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 5:09pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football player in mid-air making a catch, with sharp planes of blue and white colors representing the Colts' uniform. The abstract style captures the dynamic movement and physicality of the sport.A cubist interpretation of a Colts receiver making a contested catch, hinting at the team's search for a new young pass-catcher to replace Michael Pittman Jr.Indianapolis Today

After trading away veteran receiver Michael Pittman Jr., the Indianapolis Colts are looking to the 2026 NFL Draft to find his replacement. Reports indicate the team could target Indiana standout Elijah Sarratt in the middle rounds, as he fits their needs and has local ties.

Why it matters

The Colts need to find a young, cost-effective option to fill the void left by Pittman's departure. Sarratt, a national champion and physical receiver, could step in and contribute immediately alongside the team's other young pass-catchers.

The details

Sarratt, projected as a mid-to-late Day 2 pick, had a breakout season for the Hoosiers in 2025, recording 830 yards and 15 touchdowns on 65 receptions. At 6'2" and 211 lbs, he's considered a high-floor prospect with strong contested-catch ability, though his route-running still has room for improvement. The Colts' first pick in the 2026 draft comes at #47 overall, and they could target Sarratt if he's still available in the third round at #78.

  • The Colts traded Michael Pittman Jr. in the 2026 offseason.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 2026.

The players

Elijah Sarratt

A 6'2", 211 lb receiver who won the national championship with Indiana in 2025 and is projected as a mid-to-late Day 2 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Michael Pittman Jr.

The veteran receiver who the Colts traded away in the 2026 offseason to create salary cap space.

Alec Pierce

A young receiver on the Colts' roster who could form a strong duo with Sarratt if the team drafts him.

Josh Downs

Another young receiver on the Colts' roster who could benefit from the addition of Sarratt.

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What they’re saying

“Sarratt might be the type of prospect on Ballard's radar, perhaps in round 3.”

— Mike Chappell, Reporter, FOX59

What’s next

The Colts will have to wait until the 2026 NFL Draft in April to see if Elijah Sarratt falls to them in the middle rounds.

The takeaway

The Colts are looking to find a young, cost-effective replacement for Michael Pittman Jr., and Elijah Sarratt could be the perfect fit if he's available in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft. His local ties and physical playing style make him an intriguing target for the team.