The Indianapolis Colts have some concerning news during NFL training camp, particularly when it comes to two wide receivers expected to play important roles in the offense this season
NFL insider Adam Schefter provided an update Sunday morning that immediately raised questions about the health of Indianapolis’ receiving corps
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Schefter reported that Alec Pierce still has not practiced this summer after undergoing offseason ankle surgery, while Josh Downs missed Saturday’s practice because of a groin injury. While both situations deserve attention, Pierce’s status is easily the bigger concern
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Colts still waiting on Alec Pierce
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce (14) leaves the field Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, after losing a game against the San Francisco 49ers at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis
Pierce was expected to be a major part of Indianapolis’ offense after receiving a massive contract extension earlier this year
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The Colts signed Pierce to a four-year, $114 million contract extension in March 2026. The deal includes $84 million in total guarantees, with $60 million fully guaranteed at signing, and can reach $116 million with incentives
That’s an enormous investment in a receiver who has yet to practice this summer
Pierce’s role becomes even more important when considering another major offseason decision by Indianapolis. The Colts traded Michael Pittman to the Pittsburgh Steelers, removing one of their more productive receivers from the roster
That leaves Indianapolis counting heavily on Pierce to step into an even larger role
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Josh Downs adds another concern
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs (1) catches a touchdown pass during the fourth quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
Downs’ groin injury isn’t necessarily cause for panic, particularly compared to Pierce’s prolonged absence, but it’s certainly something to monitor
The Colts need their receiving corps to stay healthy if they want to take a step forward this season. Losing multiple important players during training camp could create problems for an offense that has already undergone significant changes
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The biggest question, however, remains Pierce
At this point, the Colts don’t even know when their highly paid receiver will return to practice. And even once he does, there’s no guarantee he’ll immediately look like the elite vertical threat Indianapolis invested so heavily in
For a player making $114 million, that’s a potentially massive problem
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