This Colts Playmaker May Be Playing His Final Snaps in Indianapolis: Alec Pierce’s Uncertain Future

As the Indianapolis Colts (8-7) limp toward the end of a disappointing 2025 season—capped by a humiliating 48-27 home loss to the San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football—one standout performer could be suiting up in blue and white for the last time. Wide receiver Alec Pierce, the team’s deep-threat specialist, is in the final year of his rookie contract and poised to hit unrestricted free agency this offseason. A recent article from Horseshoe Heroes on December 24, 2025, spotlighted the possibility, noting that Pierce “may be playing his final snaps in Indianapolis” unless the Colts commit to a significant extension.

Pierce, the 2022 second-round pick out of Cincinnati, has solidified himself as a key playmaker in Shane Steichen’s offense, particularly as a field-stretcher. Through Week 16, he leads the Colts in receiving yards and accounts for nearly 44% of the team’s air yards—a metric highlighting his downfield dominance. Even in the loss to the 49ers, Pierce shone brightly amid the gloom, hauling in multiple catches including two touchdowns from veteran quarterback Philip Rivers, who has leaned on him during his improbable comeback stint.

Pierce’s Breakout and Value to the Colts

At 25 years old, Pierce has evolved from a raw prospect into a well-rounded weapon. No longer just a “go-route” specialist, he’s shown improved route-running across all levels of the field while maintaining elite speed (leading the NFL in yards per reception in recent seasons). His ability to win contested balls and create explosive plays has been crucial for an offense that’s relied heavily on big chunks, especially with Michael Pittman Jr. drawing primary coverage and Josh Downs operating in the slot.

In 2025, Pierce’s production has spiked, positioning him for a “massive raise.” Analysts project him as one of the top wideout free agents, with his unique combination of size (6’3″), speed, and youth drawing comparisons to premium deep threats like Mike Williams or Gabe Davis in their prime contract years.

Why the Colts Might Let Him Walk

The hesitation in Indianapolis stems from financial constraints and roster priorities. The Colts project around the 11th-most cap space this offseason (per Spotrac), but commitments elsewhere could complicate a big extension. Michael Pittman Jr.’s hefty deal (signed in 2024) already eats a significant chunk, and with emerging talents like Adonai Mitchell (before his trade) and Josh Downs under cost-controlled contracts, GM Chris Ballard might opt for youth over paying premium for Pierce’s specialized role.

Additionally, the quarterback situation remains fluid. With Daniel Jones out for the season (torn Achilles), Anthony Richardson recovering from injury, and 44-year-old Philip Rivers providing a temporary spark, the front office’s focus could shift to stabilizing the position—potentially via draft or free agency—rather than investing heavily in the receiving corps.

Losing Pierce would sting, as his vertical threat opens up the underneath game for Pittman, Downs, and running back Jonathan Taylor. Without him, the offense risks becoming more predictable, especially in a pass-heavy league.

The Case for Re-Signing Pierce

On the flip side, the Colts have the means to retain him. Their projected cap flexibility allows for a competitive offer, and Pierce fits Steichen’s scheme perfectly—stretching defenses to create space for Taylor’s ground attack and play-action shots. At just 25, he’s entering his prime, and his development into a more complete receiver makes him worth the investment.

If the Colts view themselves as contenders in 2026 (with a healthy QB room), keeping continuity on offense is key. Pierce’s chemistry with whoever lines up under center—whether Richardson, a veteran addition, or Rivers in an unlikely encore—could pay dividends.

The Bigger Picture: A Pivotal Offseason Looms

The Colts’ late-season collapse—five losses in their last six games—has dimmed playoff hopes, shifting attention to 2026. With Rivers’ comeback providing emotional highs but no wins, and the defense crumbling (allowing season-high yards against the 49ers), Ballard faces tough decisions.

Pierce’s situation encapsulates the crossroads: Reward a homegrown breakout for loyalty and production, or reset with cheaper options? As the regular season winds down (finale against Jacksonville), these could indeed be Pierce’s last snaps in Indy unless negotiations heat up.

Fans are split—some see him as irreplaceable, others as expendable given the depth chart. One thing’s clear: Alec Pierce has earned his payday, but whether it’s in Indianapolis remains a question mark.