Over the past few weeks, the Patriots looked to be on the brink of missing out on several of their top free-agent targets because their current teams chose to franchise-tag them rather than allow them to test the free-agent market. Although that remains true for a few of the most desirable players, like wide receiver George Pickens, it doesn't look to be the case for Alec Pierce.
The Colts were considering franchise tagging their top wide receiver before the window closed on Tuesday at 4 p.m. Eastern. Instead, they chose to place the transition tag on quarterback Daniel Jones, who they view favorably after his mostly impressive 2025 season (before an injury ended his season.
That means the Patriots might have another shot at stealing Pierce away from Indianapolis if he makes it to free agency, which conflicting reports suggest is a possibility now.
Although some reporters have stated the Colts plan to sign Pierce to an extension as soon as possible, there's reason to believe that he will want to see what he could get from other teams in a contract, including the Patriots.
Alec Pierce doesn't get franchise-tagged, and now becomes available for the Patriots to pursue
As perhaps the top free agent receiver of this year's class, Pierce could be awarded a lot more money if he chooses to leave the Colts this offseason. The Patriots are likely to make a competitive offer and could decide to go all-in to secure the 25-year-old's roster spot.
He has been widely considered their best option to improve their receiving corps for the 2026 season and beyond, especially since reports continue to claim fans shouldn't expect any big-time trades to happen for some of the more flashy names like AJ Brown.
They will have to pay up to get Pierce, however, but given his age and potential, which works well for a quarterback like Drake Maye, they might be more willing to write a big check rather than taking a risk and giving up the steep draft capital for an aging player like the current Eagles' receiver.
If they're unable to get a deal done with Pierce, though, their best bet is likely to rely on this year's draft class, even if it's not widely considered that exciting. That might be the only way to make the kind of improvements they're looking for, if a blockbuster trade is either ruled out or they're unable to get a deal done.