Colts GM Chris Ballard: Avoiding Franchise Tag Despite Its Availability
The Indianapolis Colts are currently navigating a pivotal moment concerning two prominent offensive free agents: quarterback Daniel Jones and wide receiver Alec Pierce. General Manager Chris Ballard recently expressed the organization’s intention to avoid utilizing the franchise tag for either player during a press conference at the scouting combine. Despite this preference, Ballard acknowledged that the franchise tag remains a potential option if negotiations do not progress satisfactorily before the players become available on the open market next month.
Chris Ballard’s Remarks
Ballard emphasized the importance of the current week at the scouting combine. Here, agents gather to discuss market possibilities for their clients. The discussions held with both Jones and Pierce’s representatives have been described as “very positive.” According to Ballard, collaborative efforts are underway, aiming for a mutually beneficial agreement.
Timeline for Decisions
The Colts face a deadline of March 3 at 4 p.m. ET to decide on employing the franchise or transition tag for this offseason. Ballard believes that with both parties motivated to reach a deal, a resolution could be achieved quickly. He mentioned that while four or five days might not seem significant, it can make a difference in these negotiations.
Player Performances and Impact
- Daniel Jones: The quarterback has stabilized the Colts’ position, achieving a completion rate of 68 percent. He threw for 3,101 yards, recording 19 touchdowns and only eight interceptions before suffering an Achilles injury.
- Alec Pierce: Selected as a second-round pick in 2022, Pierce has impressed with his performance. He led the league in yards per reception for two consecutive seasons, finishing 2025 with a career-best 1,003 receiving yards, 47 receptions, and six touchdowns.
As the Colts prepare for the upcoming league year, their focus remains on securing the future of these key players while considering their options regarding the franchise tag. The outcome of these discussions will significantly influence the team’s strategy moving forward.
