Latest NFL Rumors on Alec Pierce, Colts Contract Talks After Daniel Jones Transition Tag Decision

The Indianapolis Colts are reportedly working on a new contract with wide receiver Alec Pierce ahead of his upcoming free agency after placing the transition tag on quarterback Daniel Jones.

According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Pierce and the Colts have been in active negotiations on a new deal before he officially becomes a free agent on March 11.

Pierce discussed his future during an appearance on Up & Adams Wednesday, saying he "earned the right" to test the market in free agency.

Indianapolis cannot use the non-exclusive franchise tag on Pierce after using the transition tag on Jones (h/t James Boyd of The Athletic).

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported that the Colts will continue working on a long-term deal with their quarterback following the transition tag decision, but the tag is "something Jones could embrace" as well.

Jones can still negotiate offer sheets with the 31 other NFL teams when the legal tampering window opens on Monday, but the transition tag gives Indianapolis the right to match any offer that he receives.

While tagging Pierce is no longer an option for the Colts, a change of scenery may not be in the near future.

Indianapolis previously "made it clear to" the wideout that he would remain with the team "either through a tag or a long-term deal," per ESPN's Dan Graziano and Fowler.

Colts general manager Chris Ballard also praised Pierce when speaking to reporters on Feb. 24.

"Alec Pierce, I've always believed in (him)," Ballard said, via JJ Stankevitz of the team's official website. "He's excellent. He's a really freaking good player and he's still young. He's 25 years old."

Pierce is coming off an impressive 2025 campaign, hauling in a career-high 47 receptions for 1,003 yards. He also found the end zone six times.

The 25-year-old has established himself as a deep threat in the Colts' passing attack, owning a career average of 18.7 yards per reception. He also ranked No. 3 among all players with an average depth of target of 18.9 yards during the 2025 season (via Pro Football Reference).

Despite free agency approaching, Pierce and the Colts still appear to be focused on finding common ground in long-term contract talks.