Colts Face Franchise Tag Deadline: Key Players' Futures Hang in Balance

The Indianapolis Colts are rapidly approaching the 4 p.m. ET deadline today for placing a franchise or transition tag on a player. Two significant pending free agents, quarterback Daniel Jones and receiver Alec Pierce, are potential candidates for such a tag.

General Manager Chris Ballard has expressed a preference to retain both players without utilizing a tag. Discussions with Alec Pierce are actively ongoing, and a long-term deal is considered possible by Tuesday. The situation is expected to progress continuously until this afternoon's franchise tag deadline.

Pierce has reportedly indicated that certainty regarding the quarterback position, specifically Daniel Jones, would influence his decision to sign a long-term contract with Indianapolis.

Daniel Jones's situation is currently fluid, with both the franchise tag and transition tag remaining possibilities for him as the deadline approaches.

Alec Pierce has led the league in yards per reception for the past two years. In the 2025 season, he recorded 47 receptions, accumulating 1,003 yards, and scoring six touchdowns.

All eyes will be on the Colts as they navigate these critical decisions before the 4 p.m. ET deadline today.