NFL insider Connor Hughes of SNY identifies Pierce as the top free-agent wideout likely available, but notes cost is the main obstacle for the Jets. The projection puts Pierce in the $20 million per-year range, which would place him among the league’s highest-paid receivers.
Pierce, 25, has emerged as a key offensive asset for the Colts, surpassing veteran Michael Pittman Jr. as their No. 1 receiver in 2025. He finished with a career-best season, posting 1,003 receiving yards on 47 catches with 84 targets and 41 first downs, while averaging over 21 yards per catch across 2024 and 2025.
The market for top receivers could push Pierce beyond the $20 million threshold, especially if teams like the Cowboys opt for other options. Spotrac projects Pierce at roughly $20.2 million annually, though the figure could rise, and the Colts could consider using the franchise tag to retain him or leverage a long-term deal.
Connections to Reich and Pierce’s profile add context for the Jets. Frank Reich, now Jets offensive coordinator, previously coached Pierce in Indianapolis, where the second-round pick showed steady development and consistency as a playmaker. Pierce’s career totals include 157 receptions for 2,934 yards and 17 touchdowns across 64 games (55 starts).
The market reality: several teams already deploy two top-paid receivers, suggesting the Jets may need to exceed typical top-25 earnings to secure Pierce or a comparable target. Teams such as the Bengals, Eagles, Dolphins, Lions, and Buccaneers already pay multiple receivers in the $20 million-plus tier, illustrating a proven, if costly, path to optimizing a pass-heavy offense. Pierce turns 26 before the 2026 season, adding another layer to the evaluation for New York.
