Indianapolis – Colts head coach Shane Steichen announced Monday that veteran wideout Alec Pierce is on track to play in the team’s Week 1 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. The 26‑year‑old recovered from left‑ankle surgery performed in March and has been back on the field since Aug. 27.
Recovery timeline and practice reps
Steichen told reporters, “He should be good to go. We’ll get him some reps and practice this week, just like he took reps last week. He’s feeling really good.” The coach emphasized that Pierce’s fifth practice since being cleared has been productive, giving him the chance to regain timing with quarterback Anthony Richardson.
Season outlook for Indianapolis’ top receiver
Pierce entered his fifth NFL season as the Colts’ No. 1 wide receiver after posting career‑high numbers in 2025: 47 receptions for 1,003 yards and six touchdowns. Over 64 games (55 starts) since being drafted in the second round of the 2022 draft, he has amassed 157 catches for 2,934 yards and 17 touchdowns. Notably, he led the league for two consecutive seasons in yards per catch, averaging 21.3 yards per reception last year, underscoring his role as a deep‑threat weapon.
Contract extension reflects team confidence
In March, Indianapolis rewarded Pierce with a four‑year, $114 million contract extension, signaling the organization’s belief that he will remain a cornerstone of the offense for years to come. The deal aligns with the Colts’ broader strategy to build a balanced attack around a strong passing game and a revitalized running game.
What fans can expect in the opener
The upcoming contest against the Ravens will be the first real test of Pierce’s post‑surgery form. If he returns to his pre‑injury speed and route‑running precision, Indianapolis could regain a potent vertical dimension that was missing during his absence from preseason action. Steichen’s confidence suggests the coaching staff expects Pierce to contribute immediately, providing a reliable target for Richardson and helping the Colts compete for a playoff spot.
Community impact
Beyond the gridiron, Pierce’s presence is a boost for Indianapolis fans who value strong family‑oriented entertainment. The Colts’ commitment to keeping a hometown star on the field aligns with the city’s tradition of supporting local heroes who embody hard work, perseverance, and dedication—values that resonate with the community’s faith‑centered, family‑first culture.
As the season kicks off, Colts supporters can look forward to seeing Pierce back in the uniform, ready to make big plays and help lead Indianapolis toward a successful campaign.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
