It's no secret that standout wide receiver Alec Pierce's offseason ankle surgery looms large over the Indianapolis Colts heading into 2026. His ongoing recovery leaves the club in an unenviable spot — one that could reportedly point them to Keenan Allen.
Pierce went under the knife in March and said the return timeline can be anywhere from four to six months. That puts him in jeopardy of missing Week 1 or facing a ramp-up period as the Colts start the upcoming campaign. His potential unavailability or early limitations open the door for an outside addition, with Allen being a name to watch, per The Athletic's (subscription required) James Boyd.
Allen is a proven commodity who comes with over a decade of invaluable NFL experience. The six-time Pro Bowler's track record speaks for itself, though his notable connection to Indianapolis' leader, Shane Steichen, has Boyd's attention.
Free-agent veteran Keenan Allen pops up as a possible WR target for the Indianapolis Colts (again)
"As Pierce continues rehab, his absence this offseason may make the Colts consider signing a veteran receiver for a little insurance," Boyd wrote. "Keenan Allen is someone to keep in mind. "The 34-year-old previously played for Colts [head] coach Shane Steichen when Steichen was the Los Angeles Chargers' offensive coordinator."
This isn't the first time Allen's been linked to the Colts, and understandably so. Not only is he among the best options still available at this stage of free agency, but his established relationship with Steichen holds weight.
Steichen's coaching career in the league dates back to 2011, when the Chargers hired him as a defensive assistant. The innovative play-caller got his first opportunity on the other side of the ball as an offensive quality control coach for the Cleveland Browns in 2013.
He rejoined Los Angeles' staff in 2014 and served various roles, replacing mentor Ken Whisenhunt as offensive coordinator midway through 2019.
Moreover, Allen is a Chargers legend, spending 12 of his 13 pro seasons to date with them. He's their all-time leader in receptions (985) and ranks second in receiving yards (11,307), trailing only Hall of Fame tight end Antonio Gates. The 2017 Comeback Player of the Year's iconic tenure with the franchise overlapped with Steichen's.
Given the circumstances, Allen's familiarity with Steichen's offense can't be emphasized enough. Indy is preparing for a pivotal season and has less than a few months to get anyone they bring in up to speed. The 2013 third-round pick would have a shorter learning curve than any of the team's other external options.
Despite transitioning into a part-time contributor with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2025, Allen remained effective. He caught 81 of 122 targets for 777 yards and four touchdowns while logging a 55 percent offensive snap share in 17 games.
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