The Denver Broncos came up just short in the AFC Championship Game, and now the focus shifts to what comes next. And let’s be honest-if this team wants to keep trending upward, they’ll need to give Bo Nix a little more help on the outside.
Courtland Sutton remains the anchor of the Broncos’ receiving corps, and there’s some young talent in the mix. But Denver clearly sees the value in adding a proven WR2 to complement Sutton and stretch defenses. That brings us to Alec Pierce-a name that’s starting to surface as a potential offseason target.
Pierce, coming off a breakout season with the Colts, is projected to command a hefty contract in free agency-Spotrac estimates around $80 million. And after Denver reportedly explored a trade for Dolphins wideout Jaylen Waddle back in November, it’s clear the front office is serious about upgrading the receiver room.
So why Pierce? He’s the kind of receiver who fits both the scheme and the quarterback.
At 6-foot-3 with a physical frame, Pierce thrives in contested catch situations and isn’t afraid to block-two traits that align well with Sean Payton’s system and Nix’s skill set. He’s not just a possession guy either.
Pierce led the NFL in yards per reception this past season, and he did it while missing two games. That kind of explosiveness doesn’t just stretch the field-it opens up the entire offense.
With 1,003 yards and six touchdowns in 2025, Pierce posted career highs across the board. That production, paired with his ability to win deep and make plays after the catch, makes him one of the most intriguing free-agent receivers on the market. And for a Denver offense that showed promise but lacked consistent downfield threats, Pierce could be the missing piece.
A one-two punch of Sutton and Pierce would give Nix a pair of big-bodied targets who can win on the outside, fight for yardage, and bail him out when the pocket breaks down. It’s the kind of move that could accelerate Nix’s development and give Payton more flexibility in designing a vertical passing attack.
The Colts may not be ready to let Pierce walk without a fight, but if the Broncos are willing to pay, this could be one of the splashier signings of the offseason. Denver’s offense took strides this year, and adding a player like Pierce would only push that momentum forward.