USC football in the NFL: Michael Pittman out after calf surgery

USC football alum Michael Pittman will miss time in his rookie season because of injury.

Michael Pittman’s hopes of leading all rookie receivers in yards in 2020 took a major hit this week.

The former USC football receiver developed compartment leg syndrome in his calf during the Colts 36-7 victory over the Jets and had to undergo surgery on Sunday night.

Fortunately, the scary leg problem, which involved a build-up of pressure because of bleeding or swelling, was addressed quickly.

Pittman is expected back in action by Week 8, according to Ian Rapoport.

USC football’s Michael Pittman will miss at least three games.

If all goes well for Pittman, he’ll be good to go when the Colts travel to Detroit to face the Lions.

Pittman has appeared in three games for Indianapolis but already injury has played a role in his rookie campaign.

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He debuted with two catches for 10 yards against Jacksonville, then played through a toe problem to catch four passes for 37 yards versus Minnesota. On Sunday, he took the field against the Jets and had three catches for 26 yards before the calf injury took him out of the game.

To be fair, Pittman’s start wasn’t bright enough for the Colts to contend early to be the best rookie wide receiver in the league. Justin Jefferson leads all rookie receivers with 245 yards for the Vikings. CeeDee Lamb isn’t far behind with 230 yards.

However, the Trojan rookie was going to have increased opportunities after Parris Campbell was put on IR. He started on Sunday as a result.

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It’s unfortunate for Pittman to have his rookie season trimmed, but at least he’ll be able to get back on the field at some point.