Colts Receivers Struggle as Downs and Pierce Miss Practices

WHO:

colts.com - Riley Leonard and Anthony Richardson Sr. are competing for the backup quarterback position.

FF Today - Alec Pierce is recovering from ankle surgery that took place in March.

Sportskeeda - The Indianapolis Colts' wide receiver room includes players Alec Pierce and Josh Downs.

Heavy NFL - The Colts are evaluating players expected to handle major roles in the passing game, including quarterback Daniel Jones.

WHAT:

colts.com - Leonard and Richardson have been splitting second and third-team reps throughout training camp.

colts.com - Leonard threw a touchdown pass to tight end Eli Pancol during practice.

colts.com - Richardson led a two-minute drill that concluded with a rushing touchdown by running back Seth McGowan.

FF Today - Alec Pierce was placed on the PUP list to start camp due to his recovery from ankle surgery, which had a 4-6 month recovery timeline.

Sportskeeda - Alec Pierce and Josh Downs missed practices during training camp.

Heavy NFL - The Colts are preparing for the 2026 NFL season.

WHERE:

Heavy NFL - The events are taking place during the Colts' training camp.

WHEN:

Heavy NFL - The Colts are preparing for the 2026 NFL season.

WHY:

Heavy NFL - The absence of Pierce and Downs impacts the team's offensive strategy as they build around quarterback Daniel Jones.

HOW:

colts.com - Leonard expressed the need to trust his instincts more, stating, "A big part of playing quarterback in this league is just letting it rip."

colts.com - Richardson mentioned he wants to improve on managing the offense, saying, "Some plays, I can help guys out a little bit more and manage the form."

FF Today - Head Coach Shane Steichen indicated that Pierce will "get ramped up during training camp."

Heavy NFL - The Colts are working to evaluate their roster during training camp.

Riley Leonard and Anthony Richardson Sr. are in a competitive battle for the backup quarterback position, splitting second and third-team reps throughout training camp. During practice, Leonard connected with tight end Eli Pancol for a touchdown pass, while Richardson successfully led a two-minute drill that ended with a rushing touchdown by running back Seth McGowan. Leonard emphasized the importance of trusting his instincts, saying, "A big part of playing quarterback in this league is just letting it rip," and Richardson noted his desire to improve his offensive management, stating, "Some plays, I can help guys out a little bit more and manage the form."