The Indianapolis Colts could soon have Alec Pierce back on the practice field, giving their passing game an important boost before the regular season. The receiver has made progress since undergoing ankle and heel surgery, but his recovery has not been without questions.
A physical therapist recently spotted a movement pattern that could create another problem if it continues. This has added another concern for Indianapolis to consider as Pierce works toward his return.
Alec Pierce Injury Update Includes Warning From Physical Therapist
Pierce has spent training camp on the active/PUP list while recovering from surgery performed in late March. Colts coach Shane Steichen recently said the wide receiver is in a “really good spot” and indicated that a practice return could come soon. The team also has not discussed placing him on the regular-season PUP list or short-term injured reserve.
Jeff Mueller, PT, DPT, reviewed footage of Pierce and raised concerns about the way his left leg moves when his foot hits the ground.
Mueller wrote on X, “Watch Alec Pierce’s left knee/leg every time he contacts his foot down on the ground. Seems like he drifts into excessive varus. I have a High Risk for compensation injury for Alec Pierce and this video doesn’t make me feel any better about it.”
Watch Alec Pierce’s left knee/leg every time he contacts his foot down on the ground. Seems like he drifts into excessive varus.
I have a High Risk for compensation injury for Alec Pierce and this video doesn’t make me feel any better about it. pic.twitter.com/MDA4F0XGo8
— Jeff Mueller, PT, DPT (@jmthrivept) August 26, 2026
The observation comes as Pierce works back from an ankle problem that has followed him since 2024. He previously received a platelet-rich plasma injection, but the issue continued and eventually led to surgery. His return will therefore require Indianapolis to monitor more than simply whether he can get back on the field.
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The Colts also adjusted their receiver group while Pierce remained unavailable. After trading Michael Pittman Jr., Indianapolis signed Keenan Allen and continued to rely on Josh Downs. Ashton Dulin, Anthony Gould, and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine also received more opportunities during Pierce’s absence
Pierce remains listed as a WR1 on the team’s unofficial depth chart, with his PUP status evident in the asterisk next to his name. Once cleared, he is expected to resume his role on the outside with Allen and Downs.
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This role carries plenty of weight after Pierce’s 2025 season, which landed him 13th on PFN’s NFL WR Impact ranking. He played 15 games and posted 47 receptions for 1,003 yards and six touchdowns. His 21.3 yards per reception led the NFL for the second straight season, showing his value as a deep threat weapon for Indianapolis.
The Colts rewarded that production with a four-year, $114 million extension in March. The contract shows how important Pierce is expected to be within Steichen’s offense.
His return to practice should provide a clearer picture of his readiness, but the Colts will have to manage his workload carefully. Getting Pierce back for the regular season matters, yet keeping him healthy after surgery remains the bigger priority.
