The Indianapolis Colts received a concerning update on wide receiver Alec Pierce after his early exit from Sunday night’s loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. Head coach Shane Steichen confirmed Monday that Pierce aggravated something in the same heel that required surgery during the offseason, leaving his status for Week 3 against the Houston Texans uncertain.
Pierce had only recently returned to the field after spending most of the offseason recovering from the procedure, making the latest setback particularly significant for Indianapolis.
Pierce aggravated surgically repaired heel
warms up before the game between Ravens and Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Pierce suffered the injury during the first quarter of Sunday’s 33-30 overtime loss to Kansas City. He was unable to put weight on the leg, was eventually carted to the locker room, and was ruled out for the remainder of the game. He finished with one reception for 11 yards on 17 offensive snaps.
The initial testing provided at least one encouraging development. X-rays on Pierce’s left heel came back negative, according to Steichen. However, Pierce left the stadium on crutches while wearing a boot, and the Colts needed additional testing to determine the severity of the problem.
Steichen provided the more concerning update Monday, saying Pierce had aggravated something in the heel that underwent surgery and that the team was still gathering information. The coach also did not have a timetable for Pierce’s return or confirm whether he would be available against Houston.
Colts could be without their top deep threat
The timing is especially difficult for Indianapolis because Pierce was expected to play a larger role after finally returning from his offseason procedure.
Pierce underwent the surgery in late March after dealing with an ankle issue throughout the 2025 season. The recovery kept him out of the Colts’ offseason program and much of training camp, although Indianapolis expected him to be ready for the regular season.
He opened the 2026 season with four catches for 61 yards against Baltimore before adding one catch for 11 yards against Kansas City. Through two games, Pierce has five receptions for 72 yards.
Pierce’s potential absence would leave the Colts without one of their most important downfield weapons. Veteran Laquon Treadwell stepped into a larger role against Kansas City, while Josh Downs could also see increased opportunities if Pierce is forced to miss time.
For now, Indianapolis is waiting on further evaluation before determining the severity of the setback or Pierce’s timetable.
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