Alec Pierce Injury Updated by Colts GM amid Rumors WR Recently Had PRP Injection

Multiple reports indicated Monday that Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce, who is sidelined after undergoing left ankle surgery in March, underwent a second platelet-rich plasma injection (PRP) to hopefully speed up the healing process.

However, Colts general manager Chris Ballard told reporters Tuesday before the team's joint practice with the New England Patriots that Pierce had not gotten that PRP treatment.

"Just want to clear up the confusion on Alec and give y'all a timeline," Ballard said, per Mike Chappell of Fox 59.

"Like with any rehab, there's ups and downs," Ballard said. "There's a new normal they have to get used to. But there's not a setback. He's in good shape. He's making great progress.

"Every player comes back differently and we feel good about where he's at. I don't want to put a timeline on it, but we feel very positive about where he's heading."

Pierce, a second-round pick in the 2022 NFL draft, enjoyed his best pro season in 2025 when he caught 47 passes for 1,003 yards and six touchdowns. He has also led the NFL in yards per reception each of the past two seasons. The Colts kept Pierce, a free agent, aboard with a four-year, $114 million contract.

After the season, Pierce had a PRP injection in January. Unfortunately, the treatment did not work as well as hoped, and Pierce underwent surgery two months later.

Pierce has not participated in any offseason activities as he continues to recover, but Ballard provided hope on July 28 when he told reporters (h/t Jack McKessy of USA Today) that the wideout was a "week or two" from returning to the practice field.

Unfortunately, that time frame has now passed. Now the question is whether Pierce can be available for the beginning of the regular season. Ballard was asked about that on Tuesday, per Chappell.

"That is our plan as of right now," Ballard said. "But look, you're talking to someone who's lived through some funny injury deals.

"That's the expectation. It's kind of day-to-day."

The Colts open the 2026 campaign on Sunday, Sept. 13 at home against the Baltimore Ravens.