Alec Pierce may return to practice this week

Published August 25, 2026 11:39 AM There is some positive news on the injury front for the Colts. Via multiple reporters, head coach Shane Steichen said on Tuesday morning that receiver Alec Pierce may return to practice later this week, though he will not practice on Tuesday. Pierce has been sidelined after undergoing offseason ankle surgery. Steichen noted that the team has not had conversations about keeping Pierce on the physically unable to perform list to start the season, which is another sign that the team is planning on having him for early in the season — if not Week 1 itself. Pierce, 26, signed a four-year, $114 million deal with the Colts in March to stick with the club. He’s coming off his best season, having caught 47 passes for 1,003 yards with six touchdowns in 15 games in 2025.Additionally, Steichen noted that cornerback Charvarius Ward will return to practice on Tuesday. He has been sidelined by a back issue.