Colts CB Sauce Gardener Makes Demand Involving Alec Pierce

Alec Pierce Addresses Free Agency Rumors On 'Up & Adams'

The wide receiver appeared on the “Up & Adams” show to discuss his impending free agency. While the wideout expressed his affection for the city of Indianapolis, he said:

“I love Indy… but at this point, I've kind of earned the right to explore free agency. See what's out there”.

Gardner and Pierce share a close relationship dating back to their time as foundational teammates at the University of Cincinnati. During their collegiate careers, the duo led the Bearcats to consecutive AAC Championships. Pierce recalled their practice battles at Nippert Stadium as “super competitive,” noting that even nighttime walkthroughs often escalated to 90 percent intensity.

The pair was reunited in Indianapolis on Nov. 4, when Ballard acquired Gardner in a blockbuster trade from the New York Jets. To secure the two-time All-Pro, the Colts sent wide receiver Adonai Mitchell and two future first-round picks to New York.

Despite Gardner’s desire for Pierce to remain, the wide receiver is coming off a career-defining 2025 campaign that has significantly raised his market value. Pierce recorded 47 receptions for 1,003 yards and six touchdowns at Lucas Oil Stadium last season. His efficiency was historic - he led the NFL with 21.3 yards per reception.

Ballard reaffirmed Pierce’s value during an end-of-season press conference, declaring the receiver “a priority”. However, the team currently faces a difficult financial landscape, sitting $4.7 million over the salary cap limit while already committing $29 million to Michael Pittman Jr. for the 2026 season, according to IndyStar.

Industry projections from Spotrac estimate Pierce’s market value at approximately $20.2 million annually. Significant interest is expected from the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills when the legal tampering window opens on March 9.

Should Pierce depart, the Colts are expected to look toward 2024 second-round pick Adonai Mitchell and slot specialist Josh Downs to fill the vertical void in head coach Shane Steichen's offensive scheme.