The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for what could be an active free agency period. With Mike McCarthy and his fresh coaching staff in town, change is already in the air. The Steelers have about $45 million in cap space, and potentially more if they decide to part ways with some high-priced veterans.
This financial flexibility opens the door for pursuing a high-caliber free agent, especially since the wide receiver position is a pressing need. One name that might catch their eye is Alec Pierce.
Pierce, drafted just after George Pickens in the 2022 NFL Draft, spent his first four seasons with the Indianapolis Colts. His breakout came in 2025, following a strong 2024 season with 824 yards and seven touchdowns.
Last year, Pierce surpassed 1,000 receiving yards on just 84 targets, adding six touchdowns to his name. He led the league in yards per reception for the second consecutive year, boasting an impressive 11.9 yards per target.
Despite his stellar performance, the Steelers should tread carefully when considering Pierce in free agency.
Why the Steelers Should Avoid a Bidding War for Alec Pierce
Pierce's ability as a deep threat is undeniable. Averaging over 21.5 yards per reception over the past two seasons is a testament to his big-play potential. Colts' quarterbacks had a 112.4 passer rating when targeting him last season, highlighting his impact on the field.
However, the financial implications of signing Pierce are significant. Projections suggest he could command $24 million per year, with some estimates reaching $20 million annually. Committing to a four-year, $100 million deal for a WR2 presents a substantial risk, especially for the Steelers.
Currently, DK Metcalf holds the position of the team's primary wide receiver. Metcalf's game is built on size and physicality, excelling in contested catches but lacking in route-running versatility. Adding Pierce, who shares similar strengths, may not provide the complementary skill set the Steelers need.
While Pierce and Metcalf together would stretch defenses vertically, they might struggle to exploit intermediate routes and manipulate coverages effectively. This overlap in skill sets makes investing heavily in Pierce a questionable decision for the Steelers.
Ultimately, the financial gamble on a player like Alec Pierce, who doesn't fill the specific gaps in the Steelers' offense, might not be the wisest move. The team would be better served seeking a receiver who can diversify their offensive attack without breaking the bank.