The Pittsburgh Steelers head into the 2026 offseason searching for a high-quality receiver to pair with DK Metcalf. Pittsburgh has been linked with quite a few free agent targets at the position. The team has also done its homework on receiver prospects ahead of the NFL Draft, where they are more than likely to take a receiver or two. A free agent target that has been linked to the Steelers could be off the table after a recent update. The Steelers may need to make a major pivot as one of their potential top targets could be off the table.
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Colts' wide receiver Alec Pierce goes up to make a catch against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Indianapolis Colts receiver Alec Pierce is set to test the market in the coming weeks once the new league year kicks off. However, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler gave his insight regarding Pierce's status.
"The team has made it clear to Pierce that he will be a Colt, either through a tag or a long-term deal, before the new league year. The Colts have work to do to make that happen, but that is the plan. A franchise tag for Pierce would come in around $27 million. Those numbers are steep but reasonable." Fowler wrote. "The Colts haven't tipped their hand in a possible direction. Pierce would command a massive contract if he hit free agency. In November, we reported his market could hit $20 million. Think higher now."
Pierce has been linked to the Steelers due to the clear need in the Steel City. It was always evident that he would demand some money after a career year; however, if the Colts and General Manager Chris Ballard decide to franchise tag him, that could be a problem for Pittsburgh and any other interested parties.
The Steelers would definitely have to attack a different free agent. Pierce is at the top of the list when it comes to talent in this year's class, and him staying with the Colts could force the Black and Gold to go in a different direction. That could end up being a trade for someone like Jaylen Waddle or AJ Brown, or moving up in the draft for the best prospect available. This news could be a catalyst in which direction Pittsburgh tries to go when addressing its depleted receiver room.
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Steelers Wide Receiver DK Metcalf making a catch in the 2025 season against the Cincinnati Bengals
The Steelers need someone to complement Metcalf, and Pierce would be just the one to do it. Should Pierce not get the franchise tag from Indianapolis, the Steelers would have to pay a hefty price for the rising star. Pierce broke out in 2025, proving to be not just an occasional big-play threat, but a more complete receiver. Pierce logged 47 catches for 1,003 yards with an average of 21.3 yards per catch, which led the NFL.
Pierce led the league in that same category in 2024, proving his ability to be explosive. He thrived while being a dynamic threat in Indianapolis, and could find similar success in Pittsburgh while continuing to expand his route tree. It would take the pressure off Metcalf to have a respectable receiver alongside him. The Steelers will have to hold out hope that Pierce is not franchise tagged, as it still leaves then in the running to give him a contract.
The Steelers will be reluctant to pay Pierce over $20 million per year, as they have so much invested in Metcalf, but the results may be worth it. The Steelers will be looking for a competent receiver to add alongside their star very soon. Metcalf had the worst statistical season of his career, as he was consistently double-teamed and was even suspended for two games. The Steelers should consider investing in the position even more with the addition of Pierce.
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Steelers receiver Calvin Austin III tries to escape a tackle against the Las Vegas Raiders during Week 3 in 2023.
Steelers Need To Have Multiple Pivot Options At Receiver
The Steelers' wide receiver room is depleted, as Metcalf is the only truly dominant guy as of now. If the Steelers can't land a splash like Pierce, they have to ensure they can grab another talent in free agency.
Pittsburgh is expected to choose one or even multiple receivers in the draft, but they would still need a veteran presence to help Metcalf. This year's free-agent class includes players like Pierce, Wandale Robinson, and Mike Evans. Pittsburgh could bring back Calvin Austin III as a depth piece, too. Should the Steelers sign a vet and draft receivers, they could be in good shape in 2026 and beyond.
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