Alec Pierce set himself up for a big payday in free agency.
The Indianapolis Colts' talented deep threat wide receiver, who seems to catch every jump ball thrown his way, had a career year just in time for his contract to be up and him to hit the open market.
Pierce is expected to command at least $20 million per year in free agency.
Will it be from the Colts?
MORE: Why Browns' nightmare QB history doomed Kevin Stefanski
There's one key factor for Pierce on that front.
He spoke with reporters on Monday after the season ended on Sunday. Pierce had two touchdown catches in that game from Riley Leonard.
But it was Daniel Jones who was on Pierce's mind. Jones will be coming off a torn Achilles, but he's a free agent. The Colts would have to sign him to a new contract while injured to see what he looks like after he recovers.
Pierce said that a Jones return would be key for him.
“Oh, it would be huge," Pierce said. "That would definitely be a big thing for getting me back here is having him here.”
MORE: Travis Kelce's potential last game before retirement was an absolute bummer
Jones and Pierce ascended together. Past Colts QBs hadn't quite figured out how to make the most of Pierce, but Danny Dimes did.
Pierce kept his roll going with Philip Rivers and with the rookie Leonard, too, so it's clear he has the potential to be a big-time pass catcher no matter who his quarterback is.
It's clear that if he comes back to Indy, though, that he'll want his QB to be Jones. It's something for the Colts to keep in mind.
More NFL news:
- Malik Willis' free agency has everyone digging in
- A priest played a part in the Steelers' miraculous win over the Ravens
- Harrison Smith nearly played QB before his retirement decision
- Myles Garrett's Browns teammate high-fived the ref after record
- Falcons would've gone to the playoffs if not for the New York Jets
- The Colts ran a fake punt on first down