The 2024 NFL season was a breakout year for Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce. “Alec Pierce has become who we thought Alec Pierce could be,” said GM Chris Ballard on Friday. After navigating up and down play during his first two NFL seasons, Pierce became that reliable downfield presence for the Colts offense in his third year.

Pro Football Focus set out to select the most improved player on each team in 2024. Their choice for the Indianapolis Colts? A fairly obvious one in wide receiver Alec Pierce, who put together a breakout year.

The Indianapolis Colts fell short in 2024 after finishing season 8-9. Though they didn't meet their goals as a team, they still had multiple solid individual performances this season that deserve recognition.

The addition of AD Mitchell helped add competition among the wide receivers and fueled Alec Pierce's career year.

The Indianapolis Colts took an early lead against the Jacksonville Jaguars after quarterback Joe Flacco hit wide receiver Alec Pierce for a huge 40-yard touchdown. While the Jaguars responded with their score to tie the game on the following drive, it's encouraging to see Flacco targeting the deep threat Pierce so early in the game.

INDIANAPOLIS -- Alec Pierce got the Indianapolis Colts on the board early against the Jacksonville Jaguars with another big play. He caught a 40-yard touchdown pass from Joe Flacco on the Colts ...

Colts right guard Will Fries only saw five games before a season-ending injury but displayed plenty of promise in his fourth season with the Circle City squad. Through 2024 he ended up with stellar Pro Football Focus metrics, landing an overall grade of 86.9, pass-blocking of 74.9, and run-blocking of 84.9.

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce (14) celebrates after making a catch Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024, during a game against the Detroit Lions at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.