It was a disappointing season for the Indianapolis Colts. After starting 8-4, quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending torn Achilles tendon. They finished 8-9, missing the playoffs for the fifth straight year.
With the offseason in full swing, the Colts’ two biggest impending free agents were Jones and wide receiver Alec Pierce. They took care of one on Tuesday, placing Jones under a $37.83 million transition tag. He is eligible to sign an offer sheet with other teams, which Indianapolis can match
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However, teams are allowed to tag just one player every offseason, meaning Pierce is no longer eligible, setting him up to hit the open market on March 11. That is, unless he and the Colts agree to an extension before then.
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce (14)Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
(Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images)
It’s a possibility that’s not out of the question. Quickly after tagging Jones, Jordan Schultz reported that Pierce and the Colts are currently in talks for a long-term deal.
“Sources: While the Daniel Jones tag would allow Alec Pierce to become a free agent, it’s my understanding both sides have been in active negotiations and there is a chance Pierce could agree to terms on a long-term deal — before becoming a free agent next week,” Schultz wrote. “That is believed to be the hope for both sides.”
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Pierce is coming off his most productive season with the Colts. He appeared in 15 games with 14 starts, hauling in 47 receptions (career-high) for 1,003 yards (career-high) and six touchdowns on 84 targets (career-high).
The former Cincinnati Bearcat is expected to cash in with a big contract. Spotrac projects that Pierce’s market value will earn him a four-year, $80.9 million deal. With Michael Pittman Jr. already on a three-year, $70 million contract, the Colts would be making another heavy investment at wide receiver.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.