Colts WR Alec Pierce cleared to face Ravens in Week 1

Colts coach Shane Steichen expects Alec Pierce to play against Baltimore after the receiver underwent ankle surgery The Baltimore Ravens will face the Indianapolis Colts' most dangerous downfield receiver when the teams open the regular season Sunday at Lucas Oil Stadium. Colts coach Shane Steichen reiterated that Alec Pierce remains on track to play against Baltimore, according to ESPN's Stephen Holder. Pierce missed most of the summer after undergoing offseason surgery on his left ankle, but Indianapolis removed him from the physically unable to perform list on Aug. 27 and allowed him to resume practicing. Indianapolis initially avoided setting a firm timeline for Pierce's return, making Steichen's update an encouraging sign for a restructured passing attack. The Colts traded Michael Pittman Jr. during the offseason after signing Pierce to a four-year, $114 million contract that included $84 million guaranteed. Pierce is coming off the best season of his four-year career. The 6-foot-4, 211-pound receiver caught 47 passes for 1,003 yards and six touchdowns in 2025. His impact extends beyond the total production. Pierce led the NFL in yards per reception for the second consecutive season, averaging 21.3 yards after posting a 22.3-yard average in 2024. That combination of size and vertical speed will provide an immediate test for a Baltimore secondary featuring Nate Wiggins, Marlon Humphrey, Chidobe Awuzie, Kyle Hamilton and Malaki Starks. The Ravens must prevent Pierce from producing explosive completions while remaining prepared for Indianapolis to create contested opportunities downfield. Baltimore has spent the offseason building a roster capable of returning to the postseason. Its first test will now include the Colts' most explosive receiving weapon.