Can the Colts afford to let Alec Pierce walk?

Alec Pierce was drafted to be the perfect complement to Michael Pittman Jr. and serve as the second main receiving threat. The Indianapolis Colts are four years into the Pierce experiment and the results have been less than desired. With that said, Pierce turned it on exactly when he needed to and is leaving the Colts with a tough decision. It has now reached a point where the Colts are wondering if they can afford to let him go.

This decision, like most, is dependent on several factors. Pierce is going to command a lot of money. If it becomes too much, the Colts might franchise tag him until they can work out a deal or have to allow him to test the market. As good as last year was, he isn’t looking like a true number one just yet. Or is he? He was the top receiver for the Colts last season and has been gaining ground on Pittman over the last two. Is that more of a product of Pittman declining or Pierce truly rising?

The value of the fifth-year man out of Cincinnati came into full view in 2025 as he expanded his game immensely. He kept the deep threat and added a lot more to his route tree. He became a trusted target for Daniel Jones, and if Jones returns as well, bringing back Pierce may be even more of a priority. Not that the Colts are going all in, but they aren’t exactly planning a reset either. Pierce’s production and newfound abilities will be needed if the Colts are to have any success. It won’t be an absolute but it should be a top priority to bring him back.

Alec Pierce is replaceable. Let’s not kid ourselves. At the same time, he might be one of the most important pieces on the offense in 2026 for this team. If he builds on what he saw last year, he might just be scratching the surface of what he can bring to the table. He isn’t in line for top dollar, but he will be paid well. The Colts will be smart to be the ones to sign the checks.