One of the key battles for the Indianapolis Colts during training camp is for the number three wide receiver spot. It is clear that Michael Pittman Jr., who recently signed a big contract extension, is the Colts’ number one receiver. Second-year phenom receiver Josh Downs is considered the number two wide receiver. That just leaves the number three spot in which rookie Adonai Mitchell and third-year receiver Alec Pierce will look to capture.
Mitchell is coming into the league as a second-round draft pick with a chip on his shoulder. He firmly believes that he deserved to be a first-round pick and is on a mission to prove that 31 other teams made a mistake in not selecting him. Pierce, on the other hand, is coming into his third year with a lot to prove. After having a promising rookie season, he took several steps backwards last season and struggled to produce and make a consistent impact on the field.
Alec Pierce and Adonai Mitchell come into the 2024 season with different motivations. However, there can only be one receiver who can capture that third spot.
The Battle for the Third Wide Receiver Spot
Alec Pierce’s Outlook This Offseason
Alec Pierce is entering his third year in the league with a lot of pressure. He not only needs to perform for morale sake, but he also needs to perform so that he does not get replaced. Pierce finished the 2023 season with just 32 receptions for 514 yards. These are both lower than what he produced in his rookier year. He was also lower on catch percentage and first downs. Needless to say, Pierce could be on thin ice with the Colts this season. If he cannot beat out Adonai Mitchell, he might just be done in Indy for good.
Pierce is certainly feeling the pressure of battling with Mitchell. However, this battle has been a way in which to elevate his game and make the offense, as a whole, better. In an interview after practice, Pierce was asked about the added competition. He stated, “if you’re pushing each other like they said, the better everyone is around you, basically, it’s going to bring everyone’s play up”. He also mentioned how optimistic he is for the offense and is looking forward to a fun year.
So far during camp, Pierce has shown nothing but electricity as a pass catcher and route runner. He has looked good during 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 drills. He has also been able to make connections with Anthony Richardson and showcased that he can be a solid and consistent playmaker. After a stellar practice on Wednesday by Pierce, offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter stated that Pierce is “consistent” with his work ethic and work habits.
Adonai Mitchell’s Outlook This Offseason
Adonai Mitchell has had a solid and promising offseason so far. During OTA practices back in May, head coach Shane Steichen sang the praises of Mitchell as he showed flashes of top-tier abilities. In an interview, Steichen stated, “The explosiveness that he goes off the ball and wins one-on-ones. He’s been making a ton of plays out here the last couple of days. He’s going to bring an element to our offense that we’re really excited about”.
During training camp, though, Mitchell has been overshadowed by Pierce’s production. However, Mitchell has still managed to make plays, including an insane catch at practice. It is evident that the Colts have a good playmaker who can easily translate into a great one. Although Mitchell has more upside than Pierce longterm, in a win-now league, Pierce might be the more ready receiver for 2024. However, the more Mitchell practices and plays, the better he will get. This battle for the third wide receiver spot is one of the more intriguing battles to watch during camp and preseason. Pierce might have the edge in camp right now, but Mitchell is not far behind.
Main Image: Christine Tannous – USA Today Sports
