Last season, the top pick for the Indianapolis Colts was wide receiver Alec Pierce. Pierce dazzled in college with his athleticism and contested-catch ability, and both things immediately translated to the NFL. As a rookie, Pierce routinely went up over defenders to secure jump balls or explosive plays.
Pierce finished his rookie season with 41 receptions for 593 yards and two touchdowns in 16 games. He was the team’s third-best receiver, behind Michael Pittman Jr. and Parris Campbell. With Campbell now a New York Giant, people are expecting a big jump from Pierce in his second season. So far, it’s looking like that will be the case.
The team hasn’t returned for training camp yet, but Pierce participated in the offseason program, and people were more than excited by what they saw from the second year receiver. In addition to a widely reported more muscular physique, Destin Adams of Sports Illustrated recently shared that someone from the Colts organization told Adams that Piece is “going to shock people with the jump he has this year!”
When speaking with someone who works for the #Colts today they had high praise for a certain WR.
— Destin Adams (@TheDestinAdams) July 9, 2023
"He's locked in, you can tell he took the offseason to improve mentally & physically. He's going to shock people with the jump he has this year!"
That WR Alec Pierce 👀📈📈📈 pic.twitter.com/PWx3OwIzWr
Colts believe Alec Pierce will have a shocking year-two jump
Pierce was described as “locked in” and it was reportedly evident that he improved both mentally and physically. That should all lead to a breakout season in 2023 for the young receiver. That shouldn’t surprise anyone who’s been paying attention to Pierce. He’s equipped with the size, athleticism, and skills, and had promising moments as a rookie; it’s only a matter of time before he puts it together.
As previously stated, Pierce should now be the No. 2 receiver, deferring only to Pittman, which should give Pierce more opportunities. The other things that should help Pierce breakout is new head coach Shane Steichen and new quarterback Anthony Richardson. Steichen has proven to be a brilliant offensive coach, and Richardson and Pierce are ideal for each other.
As the 2023 season approaches, the only things that could probably get in the way of a big season from Alec Pierce is health and the offensive line. If Pierce can stay healthy, and the offensive line can protect the quarterback so that the passing game can develop, Alec Pierce has a chance to establish himself as a quality wide receiver in the NFL.