Sauce Gardner and Alec Pierce Excited to Team Up Again with Colts

CINCINNATI — Sauce Gardner and Alec Pierce are excited to renew their competitive spirit as Gardner embarks on his journey with the Indianapolis Colts this week. The duo previously faced off during two seasons at the Cincinnati Bearcats, and now they are set to continue their football careers together in the NFL. Gardner was traded from the New York Jets to the Colts just before the 2025 NFL Trade Deadline.

“Everyone in the organization kept mentioning how much he spoke highly of me, which made my transition here smoother,” Gardner stated, referring to Pierce”s positive remarks. “Everyone already knew my reputation both as a player and as a person. We always shared laughs and jokes. It felt great. He was really excited. I think he called me even before our GM reached out, but at the time, I was lying down with my girlfriend and missed the call.”

Gardner expressed that he wished he had answered that initial call, as it would have given him an early indication of the trade news. “I received the trade call before my agent did. It was nice to hear it directly from them in such a positive way,” he added.

The cornerback is eager to advance his career in the AFC, transitioning from a struggling Jets team to a Colts squad that is currently in playoff contention with only two losses. Pierce has significantly contributed to this success, currently ranking ninth in the NFL with an impressive average of 20.9 yards per reception this season.