Indianapolis, January 14, 2026
The Indianapolis Colts are prioritizing contract extensions for quarterback Daniel Jones and wide receiver Alec Pierce as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season. Both players have made significant contributions to the team’s performance, and their retention is seen as crucial for the Colts’ strategy and competitiveness moving forward. In light of market trends, the team is aware that they may need to navigate substantial salary demands to secure these key players for their plans in the near future.
Indianapolis, Indiana – Colts Focus on Re-Signing Key Players
The Indianapolis Colts are prioritizing contract extensions for quarterback Daniel Jones and wide receiver Alec Pierce as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season. Both players have been instrumental in the team’s recent performance and are considered vital to the Colts’ future success.
Daniel Jones’ Impact and Recovery
Quarterback Daniel Jones joined the Colts in 2025 on a one-year, $14 million contract. He quickly became a key figure in the offense, leading the team to a strong start. However, in Week 14, Jones suffered an Achilles injury during a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, which sidelined him for the remainder of the season. Despite the setback, the Colts are optimistic about his recovery and are actively working on a contract extension to retain him for the upcoming season. NFL insiders anticipate that Jones will be ready for the start of the 2026 season, and the Colts are committed to re-signing him.
Alec Pierce’s Development and Contract Status
Wide receiver Alec Pierce, drafted by the Colts in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, has shown significant growth over his first three seasons. In 2024, he recorded 37 receptions for 824 yards and seven touchdowns, averaging 22.3 yards per catch. In 2025, Pierce continued to excel, leading the league with 20.9 yards per reception. Despite his impressive performance, the Colts had not engaged in contract negotiations with Pierce’s representation as of mid-2025. However, recent developments, including the trade for cornerback Sauce Gardner, have renewed the team’s interest in re-signing Pierce. The Colts are now more inclined to retain Pierce, recognizing his value as a deep threat in the offense.
Financial Considerations and Market Trends
The wide receiver market has seen substantial growth, with top players securing contracts ranging from $20.5 million to $40.25 million per year in recent years. This trend is expected to influence Pierce’s potential contract negotiations. Teams anticipate that Pierce could command a significant salary in free agency, with estimates suggesting he could earn upwards of $20 million per year. The Colts are aware of these market dynamics and are evaluating their options to retain Pierce while managing their salary cap effectively.
Team Strategy and Future Outlook
Retaining both Daniel Jones and Alec Pierce aligns with the Colts’ strategy to build a competitive team for the 2026 season. Jones’ leadership and performance at quarterback, combined with Pierce’s deep-threat capabilities at wide receiver, are seen as crucial components of the Colts’ offensive plans. The team is committed to supporting these players through contract extensions and ensuring they remain integral parts of the Colts’ roster moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Daniel Jones’ current contract status with the Indianapolis Colts?
Daniel Jones signed a one-year, $14 million contract with the Colts in 2025. The team is actively working on a contract extension to retain him for the 2026 season.
How did Alec Pierce perform in the 2025 season?
Alec Pierce led the league with 20.9 yards per reception in 2025, continuing his development as a deep-threat wide receiver for the Colts.
What are the financial implications of re-signing Alec Pierce?
The wide receiver market has seen substantial growth, with top players securing contracts ranging from $20.5 million to $40.25 million per year in recent years. Teams anticipate that Pierce could command a significant salary in free agency, with estimates suggesting he could earn upwards of $20 million per year.
What is the Colts’ strategy for the 2026 season?
Retaining both Daniel Jones and Alec Pierce aligns with the Colts’ strategy to build a competitive team for the 2026 season. Jones’ leadership and performance at quarterback, combined with Pierce’s deep-threat capabilities at wide receiver, are seen as crucial components of the Colts’ offensive plans.
Key Features of the Indianapolis Colts’ Recent Developments
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Daniel Jones’ Achilles Injury | In Week 14 of the 2025 season, Jones suffered an Achilles injury, sidelining him for the remainder of the year. The Colts are optimistic about his recovery and are working on a contract extension. |
| Alec Pierce’s Performance | Pierce led the league with 20.9 yards per reception in 2025, continuing his development as a deep-threat wide receiver for the Colts. |
| Financial Considerations | The wide receiver market has seen substantial growth, with top players securing contracts ranging from $20.5 million to $40.25 million per year in recent years. Teams anticipate that Pierce could command a significant salary in free agency, with estimates suggesting he could earn upwards of $20 million per year. |
| Team Strategy | Retaining both Daniel Jones and Alec Pierce aligns with the Colts’ strategy to build a competitive team for the 2026 season. Jones’ leadership and performance at quarterback, combined with Pierce’s deep-threat capabilities at wide receiver, are seen as crucial components of the Colts’ offensive plans. |
Now Happening on X
- @JesseWellsNews (January 12, 2026, 3:13 PM) Witnesses helped IMPD identify and arrest a murder suspect just hours after a deadly shooting on Indy’s west side. View on X
- @WTHRcom (January 11, 2026, 12:32 AM) A man was killed in a shooting on Indy’s northwest side, and IMPD stated the incident does not appear to be random. View on X
- @FOX59 (January 12, 2026, 4:22 PM) A 30-year-old man was arrested after an argument over takeout food escalated to gunfire on the near east side of Indianapolis. View on X
- @IMPDnews (January 12, 2026, 9:26 AM) IMPD arrested 30-year-old Davante Payne for his role in a robbery and assault on the eastside following a dispute over leftovers. View on X
- @JHerrickOnAir (January 13, 2026, 12:10 PM) Large police presence reported in Indianapolis this morning amid upcoming snow, along with other local updates. View on X
- @CBS4Indy (January 9, 2026, 11:00 AM) IMPD and near north side neighbors are pushing for safer streets to address ongoing public safety concerns. View on X
- @indystar (January 10, 2026, 10:00 AM) Indiana headlines include Sen. Todd Young’s War Powers vote, Ritz-Carlton development plans, and an FBI-thwarted ISIS-inspired plot. View on X
- @JHerrickOnAir (January 12, 2026, 12:19 PM) More snow expected soon in Indiana, plus updates on a Greenwood shooting from an argument and Hoosier football heading to the national title game. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Super Bowl Aspirations Dwindling
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
