The Indianapolis Colts have fired general manager Chris Ballard in the middle of the season, a day after a 26-20 home loss to the previously winless Tennessee Titans dropped them to 2-4.
Colts owner and CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon announced the decision on Monday (US time) in a statement released by the club, ending Ballard’s tenure as GM, which began in 2017.
“I am grateful to Chris for his years of service to the Colts and for everything he poured into this organization. He cared deeply about our team and our community, and we wish Chris and his family all the best,” Irsay-Gordon said.
“As I said at the start of the season, the sense of urgency has never been higher. Our standard is to compete for championships, and I believe a change in leadership is necessary to meet that standard.”
Why now?
Irsay-Gordon said the timing was deliberate. “Making this change during the season was a deliberate decision. Waiting would only delay the important work that needs to begin now. We will conduct a thorough search for our next general manager and take the time necessary to identify the right leader for the future of this organization,” she said.
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According to the Associated Press, home fans booed during the second half of Sunday’s loss, chanted “Fire Ballard” and left early as Indianapolis gave up a 13-0 half-time lead. AP reported the Colts have missed the playoffs five years in a row, and that drafting quarterback Anthony Richardson with the No. 4 pick in 2023 ultimately undid Ballard’s tenure.
Irsay-Gordon also said the move does not change the club’s aims for 2026. “I also want to be clear: this decision does not change our goals for the season. We have a lot of football in front of us, and I expect us to compete, improve, and win football games,” she said.
What’s next for the Colts?
The club did not name an interim general manager in its statement, and NFL.com also reported the move after the 2-4 start. Indianapolis travels to face the unbeaten Minnesota Vikings next weekend before a trip to AFC South leaders Jacksonville the following week, according to AP.
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