It appears that Indianapolis Colts breakout wide receiver Alec Pierce wants to test free agency next week despite positive development in contract talks. Pierce appeared on the Up & Adams Show to speak about his future regarding where he’s heading, and it looks like everyone has seen the last of the wideout in a Colts uniform. Originally selected in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, the former Cincinnati product made 15 appearances (14 starts) for Indianapolis during the 2025 season, recording 47 receptions for 1,003 yards and six touchdowns. Pierce is expected to be at least a top 3 WR free agent once it commences, and teams are likely to give him the best contract available.
“I love Indy… but at this point, I’ve kind of earned the right to explore free agency. See what’s out there.”
Colts WR Alec Pierce on his impending free agency@alecpierce | @heykayadams pic.twitter.com/AaSZnqibeJ
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) March 4, 2026
Alec Pierce Set to Leave Colts for Another Team
Earlier this week, the Colts used a rare transition tag on quarterback Daniel Jones to ensure they have a stable leader for this offense. However, it gives teams outside of Indianapolis that might be interested to match an offer and receive Jones for the 2026 regular season. The Colts are coming off a rollercoaster 2025 campaign led by Jones that brought Philip Rivers out of retirement. It didn’t end the way the Colts wanted to, which is probably why the receiver wants to join a team that has more long-term stability.
Pierce is 25-years-old and is at the peak of his career. He’s demanding at least $25 million per year for his next contract, and that might be difficult for the Colts to dish out. The team has several cut candidates, such as wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. and linebacker Zaire Franklin, so if they extend Pierce, expect these players to be gone. However, it’s expected that the Colts will franchise tag Pierce to garner some draft picks in return.
It won’t bode well for Pierce, but the Colts could be playing the long game and want something before letting their best offensive weapon head elsewhere.
Where Will Pierce Go?
While Pierce has a chance to break the market, he will be looking for a team that’s ready to win a championship. Teams like the Chargers, Rams and Patriots are possible destinations for the versatile weapon. The Chargers need a new weapon alongside Ladd McConkey for Justin Herbert in the aerial attack, and someone like Pierce could blossom flawlessly. Meanwhile, the Rams could be in the market for an exploding weapon alongside Puka Nacua and Davante Adams.
After trading for cornerback Trent McDuffie, the Rams want to win, and getting Pierce as the final puzzle piece should ensure that Matthew Stafford gets one last win before he retires in 2027. For the Patriots, they’re in the market for a receiver after the shocking release of Stefon Diggs. Pierce could step in as WR1 ahead of Mack Hollins and Kayshon Boutte to get Drake Maye back in the Super Bowl.