As the NFL offseason heats up, all eyes are on Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce. Fresh off a breakout season where he surpassed 1,000 receiving yards, Pierce is generating significant buzz at the NFL Combine. Teams across the league are eager to see if he’ll hit the open market, but the Colts have other plans.
According to insider reports, the Colts are keen on retaining both Pierce and quarterback Daniel Jones. The strategy? Secure a deal with Jones before free agency kicks off, then use the franchise tag on Pierce to keep him in Indianapolis while negotiating a longer-term contract.
Pierce's explosive playmaking ability has made him a hot commodity, and should he become available, teams like the New York Giants, Las Vegas Raiders, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Denver Broncos are expected to show interest. Each of these teams has a unique need that Pierce could fill, from providing depth to becoming a key target in their offensive arsenal.
The Colts, however, are likely to make a decisive move to ensure Pierce stays put. Applying the franchise tag, which would cost nearly $29 million, would prevent him from testing free agency waters and potentially leaving for another team.
In a bold prediction, it seems the Colts might even consider parting ways with Michael Pittman Jr. to make room for Pierce, signaling their commitment to building around the young receiver. Whether through a long-term extension or the franchise tag, the Colts appear determined to keep this dynamic playmaker in their lineup.