The latest fantasy football outlook from CBS Sports positions Alec Pierce as one of the most compelling sleepers for the 2026 season, projecting him ahead of many established starters despite a recent ankle procedure.
According to the model, his average draft position hovers around the seventy‑fifth overall pick, a range that places him well beyond the typical early‑round expectations for a receiver of his caliber.
Pierce’s 2025 campaign was a breakout, as he amassed 47 receptions for 1,003 yards and six touchdowns, averaging 21.3 yards per catch. That figure not only topped the league but also marked the first time since 1989‑90 that a player reached at least 20 yards per reception in consecutive seasons with 35 or more catches.
The Indianapolis Colts rewarded that performance with a four‑year contract, cementing his place on the roster despite a March 2024 ankle surgery that has kept him off the practice field.
General manager Chris Ballard has repeatedly assured fans that there have been no setbacks and that the team’s plan is to have him ready for the opening week.
Health Remains the Deciding Factor
The Colts’ medical staff is monitoring his recovery closely, and while the timeline is on track, the ultimate impact will depend on how quickly he can regain full speed and route precision.
If he stays healthy, analysts believe his upside could make him a bargain on draft day, especially given the rarity of a receiver who consistently produces big‑play numbers.