Alec Pierce’s recovery from a heel injury is progressing, but the Indianapolis Colts wide receiver remains weeks away from returning to the field. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported that while Pierce is eligible to open his 21-day practice window from injured reserve next week, the team does not expect him to practice immediately upon eligibility.
Pierce suffered a setback late in the first quarter of Week 2’s Sunday Night Football game against the Kansas City Chiefs when he re-injured his left heel. The Colts placed him on injured reserve shortly after, with initial projections suggesting a recovery period closer to midseason—significantly longer than the four-game minimum IR requirement.
Despite the injury’s severity, Pierce was seen earlier this week without a cast on his heel or ankle, indicating steady healing. The wide receiver appeared in two games during the 2026 season, recording five receptions for 72 yards before the injury sidelined him.
Pierce’s absence has left a noticeable gap in the Colts’ offense. Last season’s lead wideout was a major deep threat, and the team has struggled to replace his explosive playmaking. Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson’s yards per completion has dropped sharply, falling from 8.1 in 2025 to 5.8 this season, ranking 28th among NFL quarterbacks in 2026.
The Colts’ attempt to fill the void with veteran wide receiver Darius Slayton did not pan out. Slayton, brought in to provide downfield options, was released earlier this week after spending roughly four weeks with the team without appearing in a game.
Meanwhile, head coach Shane Steichen has had to manage without Pierce’s presence on the field. Pierce was notably ejected during the Colts’ wild-card playoff game against the Houston Texans in January 2026 after making contact with a referee, a moment captured by Getty Images photographer Alex Slitz.
With Pierce’s return timeline still uncertain, the Colts face ongoing challenges maintaining their offensive threat level. The team’s focus remains on his recovery, hoping to reintegrate him as soon as he is physically ready, but there are no indications he will return to practice immediately when his IR return window opens next week.
According to Yahoo Sports.
