The Indianapolis Colts’ wide receiver depth chart has undergone a significant change early in the 2026 NFL season after Alec Pierce was placed on injured reserve with a left heel injury.
With Pierce sidelined for at least four games, quarterback Daniel Jones will have to rely on a reshuffled receiving corps led by Josh Downs, Keenan Allen and newly signed veteran Darius Slayton.
Colts WR Depth Chart Without Alec Pierce
Here is how the Indianapolis Colts wide receiver depth chart currently shapes up with Pierce on injured reserve:
| WR | Player | Status |
|---|---|---|
| WR1 | Josh Downs | Active |
| WR2 | Keenan Allen | Active |
| WR3 | Darius Slayton | Active/Newly Signed |
| WR4 | Laquon Treadwell | Active |
| WR5 | Ashton Dulin | Active/Injury Concern |
| WR6 | Deion Burks | Active |
| IR | Alec Pierce | Left Heel Injury |
The Colts’ exact receiver rotations could change from week to week, but Downs, Allen and Slayton are positioned to receive a significant portion of the targets from Jones while Pierce is unavailable.
Josh Downs Could Become Daniel Jones’ Top Target
Josh Downs now has an opportunity to take on an even larger role in the Indianapolis passing attack.
With Pierce unavailable, Downs should be one of Jones’ primary options, particularly on short and intermediate routes. His ability to operate from the slot gives Indianapolis a dependable target who can create separation and produce yards after the catch.
Downs could see an increase in both targets and overall offensive involvement during Pierce’s absence.
Keenan Allen Gives Colts an Experienced Weapon
Veteran Keenan Allen provides Jones with another proven receiving option.
Allen’s route-running ability and experience make him particularly valuable on third downs and in situations where Jones needs a reliable possession receiver.
Without Pierce stretching defenses consistently, Indianapolis could lean more heavily on Allen to move the chains and provide Jones with a dependable target underneath.
Darius Slayton Reunites With Daniel Jones
Perhaps the most interesting development is the Colts’ addition of Darius Slayton.
Indianapolis signed the former New York Giants receiver following Pierce’s injury, creating a reunion between Slayton and Jones.
The two already have extensive NFL experience together from their time with the Giants. Slayton caught 200 passes from Jones during their years together in New York, giving Indianapolis a receiver who already understands many of Jones’ tendencies.
That familiarity could allow Slayton to become involved in the Colts offense relatively quickly.
Slayton also provides something Indianapolis needs without Pierce: an experienced outside receiver capable of threatening defenses vertically.
How Alec Pierce’s Injury Changes the Colts Offense
Pierce’s absence removes one of Indianapolis’ primary deep threats.
His ability to stretch the field forces safeties to respect the vertical passing game, potentially creating additional space underneath for other receivers and tight ends.
Slayton could inherit some of those responsibilities, while Downs and Allen could see increased target volume.
The Colts may also distribute additional opportunities to Laquon Treadwell, Ashton Dulin and Deion Burks depending on personnel packages and injuries.
What Does This Mean for Daniel Jones?
Jones still has several experienced receiving options despite losing Pierce.
The combination of Downs, Allen and Slayton gives Indianapolis three receivers with different skill sets.
Downs provides quickness and slot production. Allen offers veteran route-running and possession receiving. Slayton gives Jones an outside receiver with whom he already has significant chemistry.
That familiarity with Slayton could be especially important as Indianapolis adjusts its passing offense without Pierce.
When Can Alec Pierce Return?
Because Pierce was placed on injured reserve, NFL rules require him to miss at least four games before he can return to the active roster.
His actual return date will depend on how quickly his heel injury heals and when the Colts believe he is ready to resume football activities.
Until then, Indianapolis will move forward with its reorganized receiver group.
Colts WR Depth Chart to Watch
For the immediate future, the Colts’ passing attack around Daniel Jones is expected to revolve primarily around:
Josh Downs, Keenan Allen and Darius Slayton.
Slayton’s previous experience with Jones makes him one of the most intriguing additions to Indianapolis’ offense, while Downs could emerge as the team’s highest-volume receiving option during Pierce’s absence.
The Colts will now see whether their revamped receiving corps can maintain the passing game’s production until Pierce is healthy enough to return.