The Indianapolis Colts were on a tear in 2025, with their offense setting a blistering pace until quarterback Daniel Jones was sidelined by a torn Achilles. While Jonathan Taylor and the ground game received much of the spotlight, the aerial attack also made significant strides, thanks in large part to wide receiver Alec Pierce.
Pierce, initially known for his deep threat capabilities from his Cincinnati days, has transformed into a more versatile receiver as he enters his fifth NFL season. His knack for catching deep balls remains his signature strength, a skill highly sought after in today's league.
Pierce led the NFL in yards per catch for the last two seasons, posting an impressive 22.3 yards per reception in 2024 and 21.3 yards last season. He also crossed the 1,000-yard threshold for the first time in his career in 2025, scoring six touchdowns despite inconsistent quarterback play in the latter half of the season.
In a market light on top-tier receivers, Pierce is set to be a hot commodity. So, where might he land?
The Tennessee Titans, with franchise quarterback Cam Ward, are a potential destination. Ward, the former No. 1 overall pick, showed glimpses of brilliance during a rocky rookie year. The Titans' next step is to provide Ward with a stronger supporting cast to help him iron out those rough patches.
In 2025, Ward was hindered by a shaky offensive line and one of the league's weakest receiving corps, evident in their struggle to create separation downfield. While Pierce may not be the league's best separator, his prowess in making contested catches and attacking the ball in the air compensates for that.
Ward's big arm and play-extending creativity make Pierce an ideal target for those deep, game-changing plays. With the most cap space available this offseason, per Spotrac, the Titans could make a strong push for Pierce, giving Ward a reliable target to elevate the offense.
Meanwhile, the Buffalo Bills are also in the market for receiver reinforcements after their playoff exit highlighted this need. Pierce would mesh well with Josh Allen, who thrives on taking downfield shots and trusting his receivers to make plays.
In late 2025, Brandin Cooks was the go-to target for these plays. While Cooks has had a stellar career, relying on him alone isn't ideal for a Super Bowl contender.
Khalil Shakir is effective in the slot, but Buffalo needs an outside threat to balance the offense, especially with Keon Coleman's struggles. Bringing Pierce into the fold could be the spark the Bills need in Joe Brady's debut season as head coach.
The Pittsburgh Steelers' offseason direction remains uncertain following Mike Tomlin's replacement by Mike McCarthy, hinting at Aaron Rodgers' potential return. Despite an up-and-down 2025, Rodgers still has the tools to lead a competent offense.
To do so, the Steelers must bolster a receiving group that was thin beyond DK Metcalf last year. Rodgers and Metcalf clicked in their first season together, and adding Pierce could provide Rodgers with another explosive option on the perimeter.
McCarthy's Dallas offenses, led by Dak Prescott, were among the league's most dynamic. If he aims to replicate that success in Pittsburgh, pursuing Pierce would be a wise move.
With the eighth-most cap space in the NFL, as reported by Spotrac, Pittsburgh is well-positioned financially to make Pierce a priority. For a team in need of a jolt on offense, his deep threat ability should be at the forefront of their offseason plans.