The Colts could ostensibly deploy the franchise tag on either Daniel Jones or Pierce, but the latter feels more likely given his radiating market.
Pierce was one of the better receivers in football last year with an 81.0 PFF receiving grade, 2.10 yards per route run and a 2.1% drop rate. Further, his 97.9 receiving grade slotted ninth among qualified wideouts.
Considering that Pierce’s next contract should wind up around a $28 million AAV, the franchise tag seems like a reasonable play for the Colts if they’re wholeheartedly committed to retaining the 25-year-old. Meanwhile, in Jones’ case, almost all signs point to a reunion — and potentially an extension before the new league year.