The Indianapolis Colts finished the regular season with an 8-9 record and failed to qualify for the playoffs once again. When the Colts were eliminated from playoff contention after losing to the New York Giants in Week 17, many people felt like firing general manager Chris Ballard was inevitable.
With Indianapolis not winning the AFC South in quite some time, many wondered if change would be the right move for this franchise. Owner Jim Irsay is known for being impulsive sometimes.
Indianapolis Colts Owner Jim Irsay Keeping Shane Steichen and Chris Ballard For the 2025 NFL Season
It is not a surprise that Colts ownership is bringing back Steichen for his third NFL season, but it is a major surprise that Irsay is bringing back Chris Ballard next season. Ballard is one of the reasons why Indianapolis has not performed to expectations over the last several seasons with some of his poor roster decisions.
— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) January 6, 2025
This came as a major surprise when Irsay made this statement. There were a lot of unhappy Indianapolis Colts fans after this news came out on Sunday night.
Fans React To Ballard Returning
…what? It has been 8 years. Eight. Ballard hasn’t changed in 8 years. What makes you think he’s going to change in year 9? My god.
— lolcolts (@lolcolts) January 6, 2025
Unbelievable. What has Ballard done in 8 years ? It shouldn’t take a decade to build a team
— Dave (@MDtarheel1996) January 6, 2025
I actually am in awe. How in gods name do you think this is the right decision. Genuinely. In what way is this a good choice. Sell the team this is unbelievable
— Miserable Colts Fan (@1ndy4ever) January 6, 2025
How can you honestly believe this is in the best interest if the team??? 8 years of underperforming is enough. He cannot build a competent roster with a vision. Even players say it, but lets keep losing and turn into the browns.
— Fisher.Adam (@FisherAdam13) January 6, 2025
Do you not get tired of saying this every year?!?! It’s been like 8 years of you hoping Chris Ballard can make the improvements to take us to the next level.
— Super Eric 2 ✌🏾 (@Yep_ItsMeAgain) January 6, 2025
It is honestly shocking that Irsay decided to keep Ballard for his ninth season as a general manager of the Colts. Ballard must have made a deal with the devil to still be employed for the Colts for another NFL season.
For More Great Football Content
Follow me on Twitter at @glennkaplan13 more great content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in college and professional football, click here!