Colts are using a special strategy to challenge Alec Pierce throughout training camp
The Indianapolis Colts are making sure to have second-round receiver, Alec Pierce, ready to perform when the season arrives.
When the Indianapolis Colts finally got on the clock in the 2022 NFL Draft, everyone knew they had to take a wide receiver, however, it was unclear which receiver they would select. Indy decided to go with Alec Pierce out of Cincinnati. Pierce won the Colts over in a pre-draft workout when the team traveled to Cincinnati to get a look at draft-eligible players.
Pierce is a 6-foot-3 receiver that weighs 211 pounds and runs a 4.41 40-yard dash. He also has a 40.5-inch vertical which is very evident in his college film as he consistently elevates above defenders to snag the football. His play style should bring a big-play element to Indy’s passing offense.
Will he be ready to contribute from day one though? Although Pierce was dominant in college, it can sometimes take players a while to adjust to the league. But, recently, receivers have been entering the league and immediately excelling. Could that be the fate for Pierce?
The Colts certainly hope so and they have a plan to help make it happen. That plan is five-time Pro Bowl cornerback Stephon Gilmore.
Interesting thing I’ve noticed at camp: Colts are sticking Stephon Gilmore on Alec Pierce almost every rep. The vet’s certainly getting the best of the rookie, but think of how much it’ll help the young wideout down the line.
— Zak Keefer (@zkeefer) August 2, 2022
Stephon Gilmore is challenging Alec Pierce every day for Colts
An early theme noticed in training camp is that veteran cornerback Stephon Gilmore has been glued to Alec Pierce, likely intentionally. Gilmore is entering his 11th season in the NFL and has been one of the best corners over the last decade. His prowess is exemplified through his 2019 Defensive Player of the Year award.
By putting a corner of that caliber on the young Alec Pierce daily, the Colts are challenging Pierce to work and deliver his best every day. It’s a challenge that the rookie hasn’t backed down from. In an interview on The Pat McAfee Show, general manager Chris Ballard talked about how aggressive and competitive Pierce is by nature.
He has shown up to camp and is confidently battling an elite corner like Stephon Gilmore. Currently, Gilly is winning the ongoing war, but Pierce has won a few of the battles. Over time, things are likely to get more even and Pierce will be prepared when he’s facing off against other team’s corners.
