The Colts are facing a pivotal moment with two key offensive players, quarterback Daniel Jones and receiver Alec Pierce, both on the verge of free agency. General Manager Chris Ballard made it clear at the scouting combine that while the franchise tag is an option, it's not the team's preferred route for retaining these talents.
Ballard emphasized, “It’s not what we want to do,” highlighting that the tag is merely a backup plan if negotiations stall before the new league year kicks off next month. This week’s scouting combine is crucial, as it brings agents together to gauge the market for these players.
The discussions with the representatives of Jones and Pierce have been described as “very positive,” according to Ballard. He remains optimistic, stating, “We’ll continue to work this week and see if we can get something done. When both sides are driven to get it done, it usually works out in the right way.”
Jones has been a stabilizing force at quarterback for the Colts, completing 68 percent of his passes for 3,101 yards, with 19 touchdowns and eight interceptions, before an Achilles injury cut his season short. Meanwhile, Pierce, a standout since being drafted in the second round in 2022, has led the league in yards per reception for two consecutive seasons. His 2025 campaign saw him achieve a career-high 1,003 receiving yards, along with 47 receptions and six touchdowns.
The Colts have until March 3 at 4 p.m. ET to decide on using the franchise or transition tag. The clock is ticking, and the stakes are high as they aim to secure their offensive cornerstones for the future.