Colts’ Alec Pierce Aims to Break Out in Contract Year

Alec Pierce lived out a childhood dream this April: throwing the first pitch at Wrigley Field. For the Indianapolis Colts wide receiver, a lifelong Cubs fan who grew up in the Chicago suburbs, it was a full-circle moment.

“I grew up a big Cubs fan,” Pierce said. “Probably was my favorite sports team of any team. So, it was a pretty special moment.”

Pierce brought a group of close friends and a few Colts teammates to share the experience. Still, there’s one thing he wishes he could redo — the pitch itself.

“Not the best throw,” he admitted. “I should’ve gone with the fastball.” Instead, it was a soft toss that landed just short of the catcher.

No Doubt About His Deep-Field Talent

On the football field, Pierce’s “fastball” is a deep-threat ability that few can match. Since entering the NFL in 2022, he leads all players in yards per catch with 17.6. He’s consistently burned defenses downfield and created explosive plays.

His stats back it up: one out of every 10 catches has resulted in a touchdown, and his seven receptions of 40 yards or more are second only to Ja’Marr Chase (8) over the same span. Pierce also leads the league in air yards per target (16) since his rookie season.

No Contract Talks Yet in a Crowded Receiver Room

Despite his impact, Pierce is heading into the final year of his rookie contract with no talks underway for an extension, according to league sources. And with the way wide receiver salaries have risen, the Colts may face a tough decision.

Michael Pittman Jr. is already the team’s highest-paid player by average salary ($23.3 million per year). Meanwhile, 2023 third-round pick Josh Downs is eligible for a new deal next year, and second-round rookie Adonai Mitchell adds more competition in the wideout room.

Pierce is aware of the situation but remains focused on football.

“I like to take a very day-to-day approach with things,” Pierce said. “I don’t really think too far in advance,” he said. “That’s why I’ve got agents. They focus on that type of stuff and what’s coming up in the short term.”

Looking to Prove He’s More Than a Deep Threat

Though he’s made a name for himself stretching the field, Pierce wants to show he can do more. He’s working to become a more complete receiver by refining shorter routes and improving his footwork.

“Obviously, the deep-ball threat’s there,” head coach Shane Steichen said. “But I think he’s done a great job at transitioning in and out of breaks on certain routes that we’re working on.”

Pierce echoed that goal: “I can do more things and just kind of trying to show the coaches what I can do.” He insists he “can be more well-rounded and do more things for this offense.”

Fighting for Targets in a Role-Specific System

One challenge Pierce faces is the structure of the Colts’ offense. Pittman handles a wide range of routes as the go-to outside target, while Downs works primarily in the slot. That leaves Pierce often running deep routes, which are more limited based on coverages.

Last season, he was targeted on just 13.9% of the team’s pass attempts — ranking 72nd across the league. While his big-play ability is respected, his chances can be few and far between.

That limited usage could impact the Colts’ long-term view. If they believe his role can be filled by someone with a lower salary or younger upside, they may choose not to offer an extension.

Ready to Add to His Game in 2025

Pierce isn’t letting contract talks — or the lack of them — distract him. He’s committed to expanding his game and helping the Colts in any way he can.

“I just want to continue expanding my game,” he said.

Whether or not that leads to a new contract in Indianapolis, Pierce looks ready to let his play do the talking — and maybe deliver a few more fastballs along the way.