Alec Pierce (Heel) on IR, Eligible to Return Week 7

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce is on short-term injured reserve due to a heel injury, according to RotoBaller. He aggravated the injury in Week 2 and has already missed Weeks 3 and 4. He will miss at least two more games before he is eligible to return in Week 7.

What happened

Pierce had offseason ankle surgery after a medical injection failed to correct an ailment. He entered the season on the injury report with a heel issue. After playing in Week 1 and Week 2, he aggravated the heel and was placed on short-term IR. He was seen limping at Colts practice as late as late August, but returned to practice and played in Week 1. RotoBaller suggests he may have been rushed back into action.

Context

Pierce led the NFL in yards per reception in 2025 among qualifying receivers, with over 21.3 yards per catch. He posted 47 receptions, 1,003 yards, and six touchdowns on 84 targets across 15 games, finishing as WR28. In 2026, he has seen limited action: 5 receptions for 72 yards on 7 targets over two games, with a 41% snap share. The Colts declined to re-sign Michael Pittman Jr., leaving Pierce as the clear WR1 when healthy. Tight end Tyler Warren and wide receivers Josh Downs and Keenan Allen (who is dealing with a groin injury) are also expected to be involved in the passing game. Quarterback Daniel Jones is recovering from a torn Achilles tendon suffered late last season.

What’s next

Pierce must miss two more games while on IR, making Week 7 the earliest possible return. His outlook depends on his health; if he returns at 100 percent, he should resume his role as the team’s top receiver. There is concern that rushing back could lead to re-aggravation or compensatory injuries.