Alec Pierce is one step closer to returning to the field.
The Colts have activated the receiver off their physically unable to perform list, the team announced on Thursday.
"I'm on my schedule,'' Pierce said on Thursday, per Fox 59 Indianapolis. "We're where we want to be.
"Yeah, Week 1 is the goal,'' he said.
Pierce began training camp on the PUP list after undergoing ankle surgery in March, shortly after the receiver signed a four-year, $114 million extension with Indianapolis. Pierce had the operation performed after a platelet-rich plasma injection in January failed to produce positive results in the affected ankle and heel.
"Mentally, it is tough,'' he said. "You just got to find ways to try and stay in it because you're going to be in those meetings and stuff. It's good to be around the guys. They keep your spirits up and stuff because sitting and watching film and watching walk-thru, watching practice, like it gets a little monotonous. You want to be out there helping the team, making plays and working with your brothers.''
Pierce's absence has diminished expectations for Indianapolis' receiving corps, which said goodbye to former running mate Michael Pittman when Colts general manager Chris Ballard traded the wideout to Pittsburgh in March. With Pierce still not back in action and Indianapolis searching for options at receiver, the Colts signed veteran Keenan Allen last week, adding him to a group that also includes slot receiver Josh Downs but lacks quality depth.
Being sidelined "makes you appreciate the game, appreciate the grind that is practice,'' Pierce said. "Especially times like this. It's tough to practice. It's hot and sometimes it can be a little bit miserable out there. Being on the sideline makes you miss it, makes you want to be out there and be with your teammates, your brothers.''
Thursday's news represents welcome progress. The ramp-up process will begin for Pierce, who has limited time to prepare for the start of the regular season.
The hope is that Pierce can get ready in time for Week 1 against the Ravens on Sept. 13. If not, Colts fans can expect him to return to the field before long.
