Replacing Alec Pierce’s ability to stretch a defense is hardly a one-player job for the Indianapolis Colts.
Quarterback Daniel Jones believes Indianapolis can make up the difference collectively.
“Alec’s a special player, without a doubt,” Jones said, via James Boyd of The Athletic. “We got smart coaches who can scheme up different things and give us matchups to put us in those (explosive) situations.”
Jones added that several players have stepped up during Pierce’s absence.
#Colts QB Daniel Jones on generating explosive plays without Alec Pierce: “Alec’s a special player, without a doubt. … We got smart coaches who can scheme up different things and give us matchups to put us in those (explosive) situations.” Adds that many guys have stepped up.
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— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) October 2, 2026
Pierce was placed on injured reserve after aggravating a heel injury against the Kansas City Chiefs. He will miss at least four games.
The Colts’ top vertical threat signed a four-year, $114 million extension this offseason after posting his first 1,000-yard season and leading the NFL in yards per reception for a second straight year.
Indianapolis has shown it can generate chunk gains without him.
Jones completed 24 of 36 passes for 235 yards in last week’s 19-17 win over Houston, including four passes that gained at least 20 yards. Keenan Allen had gains of 26 and 20 yards, while Josh Downs produced receptions of 24 and 18 yards.
The addition of Darius Slayton could also help provide a vertical presence in Pierce's absence.
That distribution serves as an early blueprint for keeping the Colts’ passing game aggressive while Pierce recovers.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Daniel Jones confident Colts can stay explosive without Alec Pierce
