Chris Ballard expects Alec Pierce to play in Colts season opener

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce is trending toward availability for the team's Week 1 game against Baltimore. General manager Chris Ballard confirmed on Tuesday that playing in the season opener remains the current plan for the receiver. Pierce recently returned to practice last Thursday after spending the duration of training camp on the physically unable to perform list. He was sidelined following offseason surgery to repair his left ankle and heel. His return to the lineup is expected to provide the Colts with a significant deep-threat option, potentially creating more opportunities for other players by forcing defenses to account for his vertical presence. Pierce signed a four-year, $114 million contract extension to remain with the organization earlier this offseason.

• 5:19 PMYahoo Sports — Steichen with promising practice status update on Colts WR Alec Pierce
• 5:09 PMYahoo Sports — Ballard on Alec Pierce's status for Colts' Week 1 matchup