The Indianapolis Colts have fired general manager Chris Ballard, a move that leaves the franchise at a crossroads. Ballard was introduced in January 2017 with high praise from late owner Jim Irsay, who called him "the best candidate for general manager that has come about so far in the 21st century." Nearly a decade later, his tenure produced no division titles, two playoff appearances, one playoff victory and a 72-82-1 record. Fans chanted "Fire Ballard!" during a stunning loss to the previously winless Tennessee Titans before the firing came on Monday.
The decision raises immediate questions about coach Shane Steichen. Owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Jim Irsay's eldest daughter, had granted Ballard and Steichen another year at the helm after a meeting late last season, calling it a final chance to deliver. Keeping Steichen while removing Ballard suggests the coach may be judged on his own merits. Sources told ESPN that Steichen was likely to be in the mix for other head coaching jobs had he been fired after last season, though his seat remains hot.
Irsay-Gordon said the timing was deliberate: "Waiting would only delay the important work that needs to begin now." With the Nov. 10 trade deadline approaching, the Colts must consider moving valuable players. Guard Quenton Nelson and defensive tackle De Forest Buckner top that list, as both are in the final seasons of their contracts. Nelson, an eight-time All-Pro, did not reach a new deal before the season, while Buckner has rebounded from neck surgery to draw double-teams on 74.5% of his pass-rush snaps, the highest rate of his career.
A new general manager will likely bring significant roster changes based on personal preferences, and the Colts appear headed for a broader overhaul.
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing