Alec Pierce projected contract: How much could the Colts receiver earn?

Alec Pierce is expected to be one of the most sought-after wide receivers in the 2026 NFL free agency market. After a season with the Indianapolis Colts, the 25-year-old is now in a good position to make a lot of money as teams across the league look for solid vertical threats.While the Colts would ideally like to retain him, Pierce recently indicated that he intends to explore his options once the free-agent market opens. The receiver said he appreciates the organization and the city but believes he has earned the opportunity to evaluate offers that could shape the next stage of his career.

Alec Pierce projected contract

Early projections suggest Pierce could land a lucrative long-term deal this offseason. Several analysts believe the receiver could sign a four-year contract worth roughly $100 million, which would place his annual salary around $25 million.

Another projection estimates a slightly lower contract value of approximately four years and $86 million, translating to an average annual salary of about $21.5 million. Either way, Pierce is expected to command a deal that places him among the highest-paid deep-threat receivers in the league.

The price tag reflects his production and age. Pierce is only 25 years old, yet he is already one of the NFL's best vertical weapons.

This is the best time of his career. He averaged an incredible 21.3 yards per reception during the 2025 season, which was one of the best numbers among starting receivers.But it might be hard for Indianapolis to re-sign him because of money. Michael Pittman Jr. is a wide receiver with the team and will make around $29 million in 2026. Giving Pierce another huge contract might greatly affect the Colts' ability to work with their salary cap.

Top 3 potential landing spots for Alec Pierce

If Pierce ultimately reaches the open market, several teams could emerge as serious contenders for his services.

Buffalo Bills

The Buffalo Bills are widely viewed as one of the most logical destinations. Buffalo has been searching for a reliable deep threat to support quarterback Josh Allen. Pierce’s speed and vertical route-running ability could immediately enhance the Bills’ passing attack.

New England Patriots

The New England Patriots are another team expected to pursue wide receiver help this offseason.

With uncertainty surrounding veteran wideout Stefon Diggs, New England could target Pierce to give quarterback Drake Maye a legitimate deep-ball weapon.

Las Vegas Raiders

The Las Vegas Raiders may also enter the race. The team has one of the league’s weakest wide receiver groups and significant salary-cap space. Adding Pierce could provide an immediate boost to their offense, especially if rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza becomes the team’s long-term starter.As the free agency window approaches, Pierce’s combination of youth, production and big-play ability ensures that multiple teams will likely compete for his signature. Whether he ultimately remains in Indianapolis or finds a new home, the receiver is poised to secure one of the biggest contracts among wideouts this offseason.