Alec Pierce's Rising Value Sparks Contract Discussions for Colts

Alec Pierce's impressive performance has sparked significant discussions regarding his contract value with the Indianapolis Colts. According to Stampede Blue, Pierce, who has often been described as an unsung hero and possesses exceptional speed, had a breakout season in 2024, achieving career-highs in receiving yards with 824, touchdowns at seven, and an impressive average of 22.3 yards per reception. His ability as a deep threat has set him apart, leading the league with a vertical route rate of 41% and dominating deep passes with 517 yards and an average of 21.5 air yards per target. As a result, his value is on the rise, with projections suggesting he could command a salary of around $20 million annually on the open market.

The Colts currently hold an 8-2 record in the 2025 season, which emphasizes the importance of their personnel decisions moving forward. Horseshoe Heroes highlights that the Colts have 21 players set to hit free agency, and with tight budget constraints, retaining Pierce could prove challenging. Alec Pierce's projected salary could complicate the Colts' financial situation, especially with other essential players also needing new contracts.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler noted that teams are anticipating Pierce to hit a significant payday in free agency, suggesting that his size and speed make him a valuable asset that many teams will covet. The Colts are faced with a dilemma as they also need to consider the contract of quarterback Daniel Jones, who has built chemistry with Pierce. If the Colts decide to invest heavily in Jones, it may impact their ability to retain Pierce, as they cannot afford to keep all key players. Furthermore, with Michael Pittman Jr. and Josh Downs contributing significantly to the offense, Pierce could become the odd man out if he becomes too costly.

Michael Pittman Jr. remarked that if the Colts don't act quickly to secure Pierce's services, his price will continue to escalate, indicating the urgency of the situation. Pierce's stellar track record, including being one of only seven wide receivers with 50+ targets and no drops in the current season, further strengthens the case for his retention. The Colts typically do not handle contract extensions during the season, which may lead to a situation where Pierce's value grows even more by the time free agency arrives.

With the Colts' offense featuring other major playmakers, the decision on whether to invest in Pierce will be critical. If they let the situation drag on, they risk losing him to another team willing to pay the premium for his talents. The Colts must weigh his contributions against their budget constraints carefully, as the clock ticks on a potential deal prior to free agency. Ultimately, retaining Alec Pierce should be a top priority for the Colts, given his elite production and importance to the team's success moving forward.