Colts Sign WR Alec Pierce to Record-Setting $116M Deal

The 4-year contract makes Pierce the highest-paid free-agent wide receiver in NFL history.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Indianapolis Colts have signed wide receiver Alec Pierce to a 4-year, $116 million contract, making him the highest-paid free-agent wide receiver in league history. The deal includes $84 million in guarantees, with $60 million fully guaranteed at signing. Pierce, 25, is coming off a career-best 2025 season where he had 1,003 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns.

Why it matters

Retaining Pierce was a top priority for the Colts, as he has emerged as one of the NFL's premier deep threats over the past two seasons. Keeping their young star receiver in the fold was crucial for the team's long-term offensive plans and championship aspirations.

The details

Pierce confirmed the agreement on social media, while the Colts acknowledged the signing without releasing financial details. The 4-year deal averages roughly $29 million per season, surpassing the previous high for a free-agent wide receiver. In 2025, Pierce caught 47 passes for 1,003 yards and 6 touchdowns, marking his first 1,000-yard season. He led the NFL in yards per reception in both 2024 and 2025.

  • The Colts signed Pierce to the 4-year, $116 million contract on March 10, 2026.

The players

Alec Pierce

A 25-year-old wide receiver who was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the 2nd round in 2022 out of the University of Cincinnati. He has emerged as one of the NFL's top deep threats over the past two seasons.

Indianapolis Colts

An NFL franchise based in Indianapolis, Indiana that competes in the AFC South division.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I knew where my heart was. I knew I love the city of Indianapolis. Just seeing where we were at last year, early in the year, we were rolling. I truly believed we were the No. 1 team in the NFL. Obviously, didn't finish out the season like we should have, but I think we can get back to where we were. I believe in Daniel [Jones], I know they're gonna get his deal done and lock him down. I think we can be special.”

— Alec Pierce (The Pat McAfee Show)

What’s next

The Colts will now turn their attention to finalizing a long-term contract extension with quarterback Daniel Jones, who was previously given the transition tag by the team.

The takeaway

By signing Alec Pierce to a record-breaking deal, the Colts have made a major investment in their young, talented receiving corps as they look to build a championship contender around quarterback Daniel Jones. Retaining one of the NFL's premier deep threats was a crucial move for the franchise's long-term offensive plans.