Colts Receiver Alec Pierce Hints at Free Agency Departure

Pierce says he's "earned the right to explore free agency" after 3 seasons in Indianapolis.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce, set to hit free agency, has hinted that he may not return to the team next season. In a recent interview, Pierce said he's "earned the right to explore free agency" and make a decision that's "best for my career and my family", raising doubts about his future in Indianapolis.

Why it matters

The Colts have struggled in recent seasons, going 7-9 in 2025. Losing Pierce, one of their top offensive weapons, would be a significant blow as they try to rebuild and return to the playoffs. Pierce's comments suggest he may be looking for a fresh start with a team that can better utilize his talents.

The details

Pierce was a second-round draft pick by the Colts in 2022 and has emerged as a reliable target for the team, catching 156 passes for 2,104 yards and 16 touchdowns over his first three NFL seasons. However, with the Colts' recent lack of success, Pierce feels he's earned the opportunity to test the free agent market and see what other opportunities may be available to him.

  • Alec Pierce was drafted by the Colts in the 2nd round in 2022.
  • Pierce made his latest comments about free agency on the "Up & Adams Show" on March 5, 2026.

The players

Alec Pierce

A 24-year-old wide receiver who has spent the first 3 seasons of his NFL career with the Indianapolis Colts.

Indianapolis Colts

An NFL franchise based in Indianapolis, Indiana that has struggled to find success in recent seasons, going 7-9 in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“At this point now, I love Indy. I've loved playing there. Great organization, great people in the city. Just a ton of support. I know we haven't been as good as we could be and I know we can be. But at this point, I've kind of earned the right to explore free agency, see what's out there and just make a decision that's best for my career and my family.”

— Alec Pierce, Colts Wide Receiver (Up & Adams Show)

What’s next

The Colts will have to decide in the coming weeks whether to try to re-sign Pierce before he hits free agency, or let him test the open market.

The takeaway

Alec Pierce's comments about exploring free agency suggest the Colts may struggle to retain one of their top offensive playmakers, which could further complicate their efforts to rebuild and return to the playoffs in the coming seasons.