ANDERSON, IN --- T.Y. Hilton's choice of backpack never disappoints. For his training camp arrival? A cheeseburger backpack, because he's "ready to eat" on the field. The time may be coming where Hilton has a little more meal money too, after Colts Owner and CEO Jim Irsay recently said it's possible for a contract extension to get done by Labor Day weekend (the first week 1 practice is Labor Day).
"Absolutely. That means they got faith in me. They have trust in me to be able to give me the money," said Hilton Saturday, when asked if he appreciates the fact that Irsay said there's no reason the Colts can't get a deal done with their star wide receiver by Labor Day. "I just gotta go out there and continue having fun, continue the trust that we have, and continue the bond."
Hilton led Colts pass catchers last season with 82 receptions and 1,345 yards. He also added seven touchdowns. No receiver from the 2012 draft class has more receptions and yards, but he is in the final year of his rookie contract as a third round pick.
"For me, I'm just going out here and having fun. That's between my agent, the Colts, and whatever they decide to do," said Hilton, about the negotiations. "I'm just out here having fun, bonding with my teammates, and just continue to get better."
Would Hilton prefer though to get a contract extension done by Labor Day?
"For me, you want to get it out of the way, but it's nothing I can do," answered Hilton. "Control what I can control."
Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant and Broncos receiver Demaryius Thomas each received 5-year, $70 million contracts this offseason, with more than $30 million in guaranteed money.
"I saw that. They just set the bar. So for me, just go out there and have fun," said Hilton. "I'm not Dez or Demaryius. I'm T.Y., so I'm just going to continue to be me."
That's a receiver that's been very reliable and productive for the Colts, since Hilton's rookie year in 2012.
