Tag, you’re it, or in this case, you’re not it if we are referring to Alec Pierce. The Indianapolis Colts entered the offseason with one tag to offer and two targets. Like a game of musical chairs, someone was going to be without a seat. That person is Pierce, and while nothing is set in stone, his recent statements aren’t going to quell the nervous fidgeting of Colts fans.
Speaking with Kay Adams, Pierce said, “I love Indy…but at this point, I’ve kind of earned the right to explore free agency. See what’s out there.” That sound you heard is the collective gulp of Colts Nation. Losing Pierce would be bad news. Michael Pittman Jr. hasn’t looked the same the last two years, and Pierce turning it on last year was exactly what fans wanted to see. Now, it looks like he could be on the way out the door, seeking top dollar that the Colts might not be able to afford.
Just to make sure we keep perspective, we aren’t talking about prime Jerry Rice here. Not to disparage Pierce but he isn’t setting himself up to be in G.O.A.T. status anytime soon. With that said, he has value in this league and specifically, a lot to the Colts. Emerging as a number one threat last season by keeping the deep ball and adding more versatility makes him as close to indispensable of a player the Colts have…or is it had? Letting him walk after some would argue that the Colts tagged the wrong guy might lead to an outright rebellion.
Discussions aren’t dead and all hope is not lost. Alec Pierce is right. He has earned the right to test free agency. His 2025 output proves he has true value. Free agency is a time to overpay and for players to cash in. Did the Colts fumble the deal? Maybe. Time will tell. For now, the Colts need to use the time they have left to figure out something before they end up with the short stick and look foolish.
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