By admin 
Wide receiver Alec Pierce is back for Week 1 as the Indianapolis Colts open their 2026 season against the Baltimore Ravens today at Lucas Oil Stadium. He missed most of the offseason due to a left ankle issue from the previous season.
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Dealing with lingering ankle and heel soreness, Pierce first tried a platelet-rich plasma injection before eventually undergoing surgery in March. The procedure kept him out of the training camp and preseason. Now, he is activated from the PUP list on August 27, gradually returned to practice, and is cleared for Sunday’s game.
NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported that Pierce could see roughly 20-30 snaps rather than his normal workload.
“He (Pierce) is not on the injury report, although, I don’t expect him to be a full go hard to put an exact number on it, but I had someone tell me about 20 to 30 plays expected for Pierce,” said Garafolo.
Colts quarterback Daniel Jones is also returning after suffering a torn Achilles late in the 2025 season. He has completed a full training camp and is expected to start, giving Indianapolis its quarterback and top downfield receiver together again.
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Why Alex Pierce’s Return Matters So Much for the Colts
Indianapolis signed Pierce to a four-year, $114 million extension in March, with $84 million total guaranteed money, according to NFL.com. The Colts did not make that investment simply for depth; they see him as a central piece of their offense.
Pierce’s recent production explains the decision. He is coming off his first 1,000-yard season and has led the NFL in yards per catch in each of the last two seasons. His ability to win deep gives the Colts a weapon that can change a game with only a few opportunities.
This production was built on strong chemistry with Jones before the quarterback’s injury ended his 2025 season. After going 8-9 and missing the playoffs following an 8-2 start last year, Indianapolis needs this duo healthy if it wants to make another push in the AFC.
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This story was originally published September 13, 2026 at 9:53 AM.