Overview
- ESPN’s Stephen Holder reported at the Combine that Alec Pierce is drawing more outside interest than Daniel Jones, a factor the Colts must weigh with only one tag available.
- PFF identified Pierce as Indianapolis’ most likely franchise‑tag candidate, with separate reporting suggesting the team hopes to re‑sign Jones without using the tag.
- Head coach Shane Steichen praised Pierce’s growth into a more complete receiver, while GM Chris Ballard said this week he would prefer not to use the tag to retain him.
- Pro Football Rumors, citing OverTheCap, projects the wideout tag near $28.8 million and the transition tag around $25 million, figures that would consume a large share of the Colts’ 2026 cap space.
- EssentiallySports and Heavy relayed that Indianapolis wants to keep both players, with a plan reportedly to complete a Jones deal before free agency and tag Pierce if needed, and Ballard described talks with both as very positive.