The Indianapolis Colts are sputtering through a seven-game losing streak to close their 2025 season, and speculation about head coach Shane Steichen's job is back at the forefront following the team's decision to dismiss general manager Chris Ballard on Monday.
Owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon put both Ballard and Steichen on notice after last season, calling this a make-or-break year for both. With Ballard gone, the Colts have for now decoupled the two, and many around the league believe Steichen is a good coach stuck in a bad situation. Some even think ownership hesitated to clean house last season because it was reluctant to part with him.
The case for Steichen rests largely on his 2023 debut. He took over a team that had gone 4-12-1, started with rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr., finished with Gardner Minshew under center, and still came within one play of winning the AFC South. His overall record of 27-30 is not stellar, but he has consistently gotten a lot out of little, starting eight different quarterbacks in three-plus seasons. Indianapolis also ranks eighth in 24.3 points per game since he arrived, ahead of teams with more quarterback stability.
Steichen said Monday he is grateful for every day in the building and has to get the team ready for the Vikings. Irsay-Gordon, who says her family's evaluation will continue through the season, insisted the decision does not change the team's goals. Whether Steichen gets a reprieve remains to be seen, but at minimum, he has a chance to redeem himself.
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing