Off-season moves

[Racehorse]

I wanted to start a thread to discuss what replacements we might be looking at, if the team moves on from anyone in the organization. I will say that I am not in the know on who is out there like some may be, but want to get your thoughts.

So, let's start with Ballard. If we move on, the only names I have heard are Louis Riddick, and Ed Dodds. I am not a Riddick fan, but Dodds might work.

If we move on from Shane, where do we go? The only names I have heard are Saleh, Rivera and Vrabel. Saleh is intriguing, but the other two are not.

If we get rid of Bradley, where do we go? Do we switch the scheme entirely to a 3-4? Who do we bring in? Eberflus?

What about the players? Who do we get rid of, and who do we target as replacements? I know a lot of this will depend on what higher moves we make, but let's talk about it.

Lastly, what free agents do we try to bring back? Fries is my top choice. I am not sure on many others.

[Brylok]

Everything stays as is.
No idea about draft picks, but Ballard will trade down.
They will probably add a free agent or two to calm the storm.
A new QB will replace Flacco & Ehlinger. He won't challenge AR who will start and be an issue.
9-8/8-9

[Brylok]

He got an extension last year (I think), but Buckner should leave if he can. He deserves better.
His agent should be putting in work.

[YDFL Commish]

If we get rid of Bradley, where do we go? Do we switch the scheme entirely to a 3-4? Who do we bring in? Eberflus?



I'll start with Bradley because he is the most likely domino too fall. Candidates I think that the Colts should consider are;

Eberflus: Hey, he had the 9th ranked defense before he left, he preached and got turnovers, no loafs, and hustle to the ball.

Rex Ryan: Only because the culture change would be seismic.

Rob Ryan: " " "

Robert Saleh: I'm in the corner of meh on this one, because I've heard from the talking heads that he plays a very similar scheme to Bradley.

Mike Caldwell: My surprise candidate. He did a damn good job in Jax before numb nut Pederson fired him. Now look at the sad sack Jags defense.

[Hoopsdoc]

Gus has to go. There’s no way they can bring him back. He is 100 percent gone.

Beyond him, I think the next most likely candidate is Ballard. I’d say it’s a toss up whether Jim fires him or not. It may well depend on whether Jim thinks he can hire a guy to work with AR.

I think it’s at least conceivable that Steichen gets fired. I think it largely depends on the state of his relationship with AR. I don’t see Jim ditching AR this soon, unless things are a lot worse than we know of. So if Jim is forced to choose between the two, I predict he’d pick AR and try to find a coach to develop him.

The level of dysfunction in this organization right now is pretty incredible.

[ChoppedWood]

Wholesale conversion of this pile of shit- get rid of all these fucking idiots! Give AR one more shot with some new people in charge.

GM= John Dorsey
HC= Ben Johnson
DC= Al Golden
QB= AR
RB= Najee Harris

[Racehorse]

Wholesale conversion of this pile of shit- get rid of all these fucking idiots! Give AR one more shot with some new people in charge.

GM= John Dorsey
HC= Ben Johnson
DC= Al Golden
QB= AR
RB= Najee Harris

Care to elaborate on why for each of these?

[ChoppedWood]

Care to elaborate on why for each of these?

Care to elaborate on why for each of these?

Well it is no secret I hate MOST of the front office people currently in place.

Dorsey- widely credited with having overhauled a miserable Lions team in an extremely short period of time- we desperately need the same.

I hate to say it, I went into the season a giant fan of Steichen, and though I think his play calling has been suspect, his leadership seems to be very very poor. Give me Ben Johnson and his creativeness and aggression as a new direction. if we are sticking with AR, which in my plan we do for one more year of prove it, I want the most creative mind I can find to let him just go for it!

Al Golden- rumor is he wants one shot at the NFL before he hangs them up. The ND defense has been dynamic. He doesn't back down and he has been able to get incredible results despite incredible levels of injury. The scheme is 100% gas- they get after the QB and they assault the ball- everything is forward vs backward. To me a total revseral from dumb fuck Bradley's approach.

AR- I am not ready to throw him away just yet. Close, but not quite there. I have seen parts of the game where it looks like he could become a very serious QB. He needs a plan that allows him to succeed, and I don't think Steichen is capable of that sadly.

Harris over JT- I am tired of JT. Has so many moments of greatness, but you can't dispute the fact he is incomplete and repeatedly comes up small in big moments. Someone will probably be willing to give up a couple decent pics for him, so I do it because we need to stockpile young talent. We need solid football players from teams that have a history of being tough. Harris isn't gonna take it to the crib from 60+ 5 times a game, but he is going to stand in the pocket and allow his QB to get off a deep bomb, he's going to battle for 3 on 3rd and 2, he'll catch the 5 yarders in the middle and take the hit, and he is not going to drop the ball at the .5 yard line. To me he is the type of veteran bridge you want as you look to sign the back of the future.

[njcoltfan]

I think they have to draft a QB to give Richardson some competition. He doesn't have to be 6'5" tall and weigh 250lbs, those guys get hurt to much, at least the Colt version does.

[IndyNorm]

I think they have to draft a QB to give Richardson some competition. He doesn't have to be 6'5" tall and weigh 250lbs, those guys get hurt to much, at least the Colt version does.

Or promote Bean and give him a legitimate chance to compete w/ AR.

[IndyNorm]

Well it is no secret I hate MOST of the front office people currently in place.

Dorsey- widely credited with having overhauled a miserable Lions team in an extremely short period of time- we desperately need the same.

I hate to say it, I went into the season a giant fan of Steichen, and though I think his play calling has been suspect, his leadership seems to be very very poor. Give me Ben Johnson and his creativeness and aggression as a new direction. if we are sticking with AR, which in my plan we do for one more year of prove it, I want the most creative mind I can find to let him just go for it!

Al Golden- rumor is he wants one shot at the NFL before he hangs them up. The ND defense has been dynamic. He doesn't back down and he has been able to get incredible results despite incredible levels of injury. The scheme is 100% gas- they get after the QB and they assault the ball- everything is forward vs backward. To me a total revseral from dumb fuck Bradley's approach.

AR- I am not ready to throw him away just yet. Close, but not quite there. I have seen parts of the game where it looks like he could become a very serious QB. He needs a plan that allows him to succeed, and I don't think Steichen is capable of that sadly.

Harris over JT- I am tired of JT. Has so many moments of greatness, but you can't dispute the fact he is incomplete and repeatedly comes up small in big moments. Someone will probably be willing to give up a couple decent pics for him, so I do it because we need to stockpile young talent. We need solid football players from teams that have a history of being tough. Harris isn't gonna take it to the crib from 60+ 5 times a game, but he is going to stand in the pocket and allow his QB to get off a deep bomb, he's going to battle for 3 on 3rd and 2, he'll catch the 5 yarders in the middle and take the hit, and he is not going to drop the ball at the .5 yard line. To me he is the type of veteran bridge you want as you look to sign the back of the future.

I can't disagree w/ really any of this. Although JT would be a ~$12M cap hit in '25 if we release or trade him, so the likelihood that we move on from him this offseason is very unlikely.

[Racehorse]

Well it is no secret I hate MOST of the front office people currently in place.

Dorsey- widely credited with having overhauled a miserable Lions team in an extremely short period of time- we desperately need the same.

I hate to say it, I went into the season a giant fan of Steichen, and though I think his play calling has been suspect, his leadership seems to be very very poor. Give me Ben Johnson and his creativeness and aggression as a new direction. if we are sticking with AR, which in my plan we do for one more year of prove it, I want the most creative mind I can find to let him just go for it!

Al Golden- rumor is he wants one shot at the NFL before he hangs them up. The ND defense has been dynamic. He doesn't back down and he has been able to get incredible results despite incredible levels of injury. The scheme is 100% gas- they get after the QB and they assault the ball- everything is forward vs backward. To me a total revseral from dumb fuck Bradley's approach.

AR- I am not ready to throw him away just yet. Close, but not quite there. I have seen parts of the game where it looks like he could become a very serious QB. He needs a plan that allows him to succeed, and I don't think Steichen is capable of that sadly.

Harris over JT- I am tired of JT. Has so many moments of greatness, but you can't dispute the fact he is incomplete and repeatedly comes up small in big moments. Someone will probably be willing to give up a couple decent pics for him, so I do it because we need to stockpile young talent. We need solid football players from teams that have a history of being tough. Harris isn't gonna take it to the crib from 60+ 5 times a game, but he is going to stand in the pocket and allow his QB to get off a deep bomb, he's going to battle for 3 on 3rd and 2, he'll catch the 5 yarders in the middle and take the hit, and he is not going to drop the ball at the .5 yard line. To me he is the type of veteran bridge you want as you look to sign the back of the future.

So, you want to get rid of JT, but keep Franklin and Speed, aka the podcast clowns?

This speaks volumes about your mindset.

[Dewey 5]

When I hear Mike Chappell say he thinks Ballard will be back that tells me we are stuck with that clown. Chappy is seldom wrong about things of this nature

[Racehorse]

When I hear Mike Chappell say he thinks Ballard will be back that tells me we are stuck with that clown. Chappy is seldom wrong about things of this nature

Watching videos on the subject make me think Chappy is correct. Irsay isn't going to pay another fired high profile guy and eat that contract if he is not willing to spend for free agents.

On a side note, a lot of people point to turnarounds by other teams, but every one of those mentioned have made a home run pick at QB, which it seems we did not do. If Irsay runs it back, we better all hope AR has the work ethic and health this offseason to transform himself into what we all hoped he would have already become.

[ChoppedWood]

So, you want to get rid of JT, but keep Franklin and Speed, aka the podcast clowns?

This speaks volumes about your mindset.

No, I put up my thoughts on what are contentious / "important" personnel decisions. I don't view either of those guys to fit that mold and have said several times- ditch all the WE>ME guys, which they would seem to reside in the penthouse of that shithouse!

[Racehorse]

No, I put up my thoughts on what are contentious / "important" personnel decisions. I don't view either of those guys to fit that mold and have said several times- ditch all the WE>ME guys, which they would seem to reside in the penthouse of that shithouse!

Fair enough. I just read it as you thought JT was the only player you wanted to see replaced, whereas I want the Podcast Clowns gone. They seem to be the bigger cancers.

[YDFL Commish]

So, you want to get rid of JT, but keep Franklin and Speed, aka the podcast clowns?

This speaks volumes about your mindset.

JT would be the 1st to go.

Do people realize that made 4 embarrassing mistakes in last weeks game alone?

1. Forgot the play and forgot the ball when Flacco tried to hand off.
2. Forgot to turn around for the ball and the pass hits him in the helmet.
3. Ran out of bounds (untouched) 1 yd short of the first down on 3rd down.
4. dropped a simple lateral from 2 yds. away on the 2-point conversion.

I just can't stand that dude! He talks a good game, but is as phony as fuck.

[Brylok]

When I hear Mike Chappell say he thinks Ballard will be back that tells me we are stuck with that clown. Chappy is seldom wrong about things of this nature
Yeah, after hearing that I figure we're definitely keeping everyone but Bradley. I wonder what the fan reaction will be. People seem to be angrier than I can remember in years.

[Brylok]

JT would be the 1st to go...

I just can't stand that dude! He talks a good game, but is as phony as fuck.

I don't hate Taylor, I just don't like him much at all. He seems, to me anyway, like a GIANT douchebag personality and that was made 10X worse and more obvious during his holdout temper tantrum. And in his interview after dropping the TD in Denver he said something like "we would have had six more points". Just a dickhead in general. There have been other things. He has talent and elite speed and will score TDs, but I'm not a fan.

[Mr. Session]

I don't hate Taylor, I just don't like him much at all. He seems, to me anyway, like a GIANT douchebag personality and that was made 10X worse and more obvious during his holdout temper tantrum. And in his interview after dropping the TD in Denver he said something like "we would have had six more points". Just a dickhead in general. There have been other things. He has talent and elite speed and will score TDs, but I'm not a fan.

I’ve loved his game since he was at Wisconsin. I wish he was a capable of more and I hate the contract but I appreciate his skill set for what it is.

I just don’t ever want to hear that guy talk again. He sounds annoying, he is annoying, and this act he’s putting up like he’s a high character guy got fucked 2 years ago. Now he just comes off disingenuously.

We all know who you are, Jonathan. Fucking own it. Stfu and be the same prick you were two years ago, we’ll respect you more.

[Dam8610]

When I hear Mike Chappell say he thinks Ballard will be back that tells me we are stuck with that clown. Chappy is seldom wrong about things of this nature

I think there are 2 choices here that make sense. One is what most of the fans want, while the other is what the most stable, consistently good franchises do.

1) Burn it all down. If you're firing Ballard, fire Steichen, and trade AR for what you can get. Ballard got saddled with a coach he didn't hir in his first season, and no head coach Ballard has had hired their own DC. This is an entirely clean slate for a new front office to go out and build what they believe to be a competitive team. They'll have to solve the QB problem, but there are solutions available.

2) Run it back with the same group one more time. Maybe Gus Bradley gets fired, but mostly keep the front office and coaching staff in tact. Bring in a DC Steichen wants that has a vision to compliment his offense, let that DC hire his own position coaches if he so chooses, and see if AR can develop into that franchise guy with a full offseason of being able to develop his passing rather than rehabbing his shoulder and a full training camp to learn what he needs to learn to grow and develop in this offense.

The first option is the option most Colts fans seem to want, but it reminds me of something the Browns, Panthers, or Jaguars would do. The second option is the one that would lead to incessant bitching from the fanbase, but is more reminiscent of what the Ravens, Steelers, or Eagles would do. I'd rather be in line with that second group of franchises.

[Racehorse]

I think there are 2 choices here that make sense. One is what most of the fans want, while the other is what the most stable, consistently good franchises do.

1) Burn it all down. If you're firing Ballard, fire Steichen, and trade AR for what you can get. Ballard got saddled with a coach he didn't hir in his first season, and no head coach Ballard has had hired their own DC. This is an entirely clean slate for a new front office to go out and build what they believe to be a competitive team. They'll have to solve the QB problem, but there are solutions available.

2) Run it back with the same group one more time. Maybe Gus Bradley gets fired, but mostly keep the front office and coaching staff in tact. Bring in a DC Steichen wants that has a vision to compliment his offense, let that DC hire his own position coaches if he so chooses, and see if AR can develop into that franchise guy with a full offseason of being able to develop his passing rather than rehabbing his shoulder and a full training camp to learn what he needs to learn to grow and develop in this offense.

The first option is the option most Colts fans seem to want, but it reminds me of something the Browns, Panthers, or Jaguars would do. The second option is the one that would lead to incessant bitching from the fanbase, but is more reminiscent of what the Ravens, Steelers, or Eagles would do. I'd rather be in line with that second group of franchises.
That is my thinking. Yes, a lot of fans will light the torches and get out the pitchforks, but if it pans out, they will return. If the instability rules, who knows when stability will return and we return to a serious contender.

That said, if Ballard can't get the QB situation solved, and we don't get a DC who can elevate the talent there, I will bring the lighter fluid and pitchfork sharpener.

[Dewey 5]

I think there are 2 choices here that make sense. One is what most of the fans want, while the other is what the most stable, consistently good franchises do.

1) Burn it all down. If you're firing Ballard, fire Steichen, and trade AR for what you can get. Ballard got saddled with a coach he didn't hir in his first season, and no head coach Ballard has had hired their own DC. This is an entirely clean slate for a new front office to go out and build what they believe to be a competitive team. They'll have to solve the QB problem, but there are solutions available.

2) Run it back with the same group one more time. Maybe Gus Bradley gets fired, but mostly keep the front office and coaching staff in tact. Bring in a DC Steichen wants that has a vision to compliment his offense, let that DC hire his own position coaches if he so chooses, and see if AR can develop into that franchise guy with a full offseason of being able to develop his passing rather than rehabbing his shoulder and a full training camp to learn what he needs to learn to grow and develop in this offense.

The first option is the option most Colts fans seem to want, but it reminds me of something the Browns, Panthers, or Jaguars would do. The second option is the one that would lead to incessant bitching from the fanbase, but is more reminiscent of what the Ravens, Steelers, or Eagles would do. I'd rather be in line with that second group of franchises.

Ballard isn't even close to being in the same league as Eric DeCosta or Howie Roseman.

[ChoppedWood]

Ballard isn't even close to being in the same league as Eric DeCosta or Howie Roseman.

Ballard is in a league of one, his own ego is the only league there is.

FUCKING FIRE CHRIS BALLARD!

[Hoopsdoc]

I think there are 2 choices here that make sense. One is what most of the fans want, while the other is what the most stable, consistently good franchises do.

1) Burn it all down. If you're firing Ballard, fire Steichen, and trade AR for what you can get. Ballard got saddled with a coach he didn't hir in his first season, and no head coach Ballard has had hired their own DC. This is an entirely clean slate for a new front office to go out and build what they believe to be a competitive team. They'll have to solve the QB problem, but there are solutions available.

2) Run it back with the same group one more time. Maybe Gus Bradley gets fired, but mostly keep the front office and coaching staff in tact. Bring in a DC Steichen wants that has a vision to compliment his offense, let that DC hire his own position coaches if he so chooses, and see if AR can develop into that franchise guy with a full offseason of being able to develop his passing rather than rehabbing his shoulder and a full training camp to learn what he needs to learn to grow and develop in this offense.

The first option is the option most Colts fans seem to want, but it reminds me of something the Browns, Panthers, or Jaguars would do. The second option is the one that would lead to incessant bitching from the fanbase, but is more reminiscent of what the Ravens, Steelers, or Eagles would do. I'd rather be in line with that second group of franchises.

As much as my gut tells me otherwise, I just think they have to give AR one more year.

I think a good franchise would do so.

What they do around him, I have no idea.

[ChaosTheory]

Most likely scenario is Gus Bradley is cut loose. I don't think it's the scheme, necessarily, because other teams employ similar schemes to good effect. But the other coaching aspects, like weekly prep and motivation and actual gameday play calling were not there. Accountability issues due to being a nice guy could also be an issue.

I would expect Ballard and Steichen to return. I don't think Steichen has proven to be a liability. The main thing I worry about with Steichen is A.) Richardson, to the extent he's saddled to him even if he doesn't work out. B.) IF the accountability stuff is true. That's a coaching thing. However it's delegated, that's the HC. If position coaches aren't making sure guys are showing up/giving effort, that goes to the HC.

Insofar as any of that shit is true. If so, my guess would be the defense has more culprits.

Could be wrong, but I'd be more surprised if we didn't have full blown suicide watch this off-season because Ballard stays. If they let him go, he'll get picked up fairly quickly. You can believe the reason for that is because he's a trickster, or you can believe it's for a legitimate reason. I think ownership knows that, which is why I tend to think he stays.

[Brylok]

I just listened to the Mike Cappell interview on JMV's Friday show again. For like the fifth time. The sadness and apprehension in his voice and response tells me that, definitely, Ballard, Steichen, and AR will be back next season. Gus is probably gone.
Prepare yourselves, super-angry posters.

[YDFL Commish]

I just listened to the Mike Cappell interview on JMV's Friday show again. For like the fifth time. The sadness and apprehension in his voice and response tells me that, definitely, Ballard, Steichen, and AR will be back next season. Gus is probably gone.
Prepare yourselves, super-angry posters.

Yep, that's how it will go down...unless, somebody pissed in an Irsay drink during these cordial visits and rides himself out of town.

[apballin]

I just listened to the Mike Cappell interview on JMV's Friday show again. For like the fifth time. The sadness and apprehension in his voice and response tells me that, definitely, Ballard, Steichen, and AR will be back next season. Gus is probably gone.
Prepare yourselves, super-angry posters.

Better sign a decent backup QB, that pussy might not make it to training camp

[Dam8610]

That is my thinking. Yes, a lot of fans will light the torches and get out the pitchforks, but if it pans out, they will return. If the instability rules, who knows when stability will return and we return to a serious contender.

That said, if Ballard can't get the QB situation solved, and we don't get a DC who can elevate the talent there, I will bring the lighter fluid and pitchfork sharpener.

That's why I said one more time. I think if Ballard, Steichen, and AR are brought back, you make it clear to all of them that 2025 is make or break. Either AR becomes the guy and this team at the very least makes the playoffs, preferably wins the division and has a deep playoff run, or they're all gone next year. I think Ballard is generally a very good talent evaluator, but if you can't get the QB position right in the NFL, you can't stay a GM.

[omahacolt]

Wholesale conversion of this pile of shit- get rid of all these fucking idiots! Give AR one more shot with some new people in charge.

GM= John Dorsey
HC= Ben Johnson
DC= Al Golden
QB= AR
RB= Najee Harris

najee Harris? fuck that

[rm1369]

I think there are 2 choices here that make sense. One is what most of the fans want, while the other is what the most stable, consistently good franchises do.

1) Burn it all down. If you're firing Ballard, fire Steichen, and trade AR for what you can get. Ballard got saddled with a coach he didn't hir in his first season, and no head coach Ballard has had hired their own DC. This is an entirely clean slate for a new front office to go out and build what they believe to be a competitive team. They'll have to solve the QB problem, but there are solutions available.

2) Run it back with the same group one more time. Maybe Gus Bradley gets fired, but mostly keep the front office and coaching staff in tact. Bring in a DC Steichen wants that has a vision to compliment his offense, let that DC hire his own position coaches if he so chooses, and see if AR can develop into that franchise guy with a full offseason of being able to develop his passing rather than rehabbing his shoulder and a full training camp to learn what he needs to learn to grow and develop in this offense.

The first option is the option most Colts fans seem to want, but it reminds me of something the Browns, Panthers, or Jaguars would do. The second option is the one that would lead to incessant bitching from the fanbase, but is more reminiscent of what the Ravens, Steelers, or Eagles would do. I'd rather be in line with that second group of franchises.

Reminds you of something the Browns would do? Ballard has been here 8 fucking years. Firing him wouldn’t be a knee jerk reaction, a sign of unrealistic expectations, or constant changing of direction. We’ve seen what his “leadership” and vision builds. We know the end result. How many years do you give someone so that you appear stable like a good franchise? 10? 15? Might as well move the team now. All Ballard is building is an unlikable team and a disgusted fanbase.

[ChoppedWood]

najee Harris? fuck that

Fair enough. Was just looking at RB's that:
- Can actually perform in all three phases
- Are available
- Aren't pussies
- Aren't known to be incompetent players that are a lock to make numerous stupid plays throughout the year
- Aren't gonna be real expensive
- Will be a player that 1-2 years from now can easily say "thanks for your services, our 2nd / 3rd round pick will now take the starting spot, good luck in the future, or you can stay here as a back up for $150 gift card going forward".

There are probably 10+ that meet these criteria and would be perfectly suited to replace a player that is WAY fucking over paid for what he really is.

[ChoppedWood]

Reminds you of something the Browns would do? Ballard has been here 8 fucking years. Firing him wouldn’t be a knee jerk reaction, a sign of unrealistic expectations, or constant changing of direction. We’ve seen what his “leadership” and vision builds. We know the end result. How many years do you give someone so that you appear stable like a good franchise? 10? 15? Might as well move the team now. All Ballard is building is an unlikable team and a disgusted fanbase.

I am just stunned by those that are somehow still either in Ballard's camp (prob like 15%) or are more comfortable with what you know vs what you don't (prob 85%). What we know, is he sucks, his record over a long duration of measurement, is proof of this. This is NOT something that is open for debate.

What is more confusing- there are a LOT of recent examples of drastic restructurings that have been successful. The Lions are a terrific example of it. Arguably the best team in football from being atrocious just a few years ago. They shook up everything and turned the entire culture around.

A lot of people scoff'd at Dion doing what he did 2 years ago at Colorado. Held a full team session and told a bunch of players they weren't good enough and they would be replaced. A lot of people said it would fail- they won 9 games this year and are getting huge recruits to come to their team. Hell Cignetti right in the back yard basically did the same thing.

I know, I know, college totally different, but the premise is not. It is time someone come in here, be given the latitude they need to assess and fucking just get rid of all the dead wood on this team. Ballard has proven HE WILL NOT DO IT! At some point, fuck man you have to rip off the band aid and fucking address the injury.

I saw a great piece with Belllicheat the other day talking about what it will be like at UNC now. Really simple statement; "we're going to have guys that love to play the game, if you don't love to do this, well then you probably need to find another place.". That message is very simple but very profound- he is looking for football players, guys that live for this shit. The Colts have way too many dudes that view this as a great way to make a living regardless of the W/L register. Fuck those guys- those are BALLARD guys!

[Dam8610]

Reminds you of something the Browns would do? Ballard has been here 8 fucking years. Firing him wouldn’t be a knee jerk reaction, a sign of unrealistic expectations, or constant changing of direction. We’ve seen what his “leadership” and vision builds. We know the end result. How many years do you give someone so that you appear stable like a good franchise? 10? 15? Might as well move the team now. All Ballard is building is an unlikable team and a disgusted fanbase.

Ballard had Luck for 2 seasons, spent 4 seasons trying to find a solution at QB, then there's been 2 seasons of AR so far. If you give up on Ballard, you're probably giving up on AR as well. A new front office certainly wouldn't be tied to him. I think giving AR one more year is the best option, because I feel like he's either going to develop into the franchise QB that the front office envisioned or he'll do poorly enough to get the team a top 5 pick so that when they move on, the new front office will be in good position to get their franchise QB. To me, that also means giving Ballard 1 more year, because he is tied to AR, which makes him motivated to put the best team around him to allow him to succeed, moreso than a new regime would be.

[Dam8610]

- Aren't known to be incompetent players that are a lock to make numerous stupid plays throughout the year

This was one of your criteria and you picked Najee Harris? There's a reason Jaylen Warren plays so much in Pittsburgh, and it's not because Harris is reliable.

[ChoppedWood]

This was one of your criteria and you picked Najee Harris? There's a reason Jaylen Warren plays so much in Pittsburgh, and it's not because Harris is reliable.

And why Warren will be in a Steeler uniform next year and Harris will be in another.

[Dam8610]

And why Warren will be in a Steeler uniform next year and Harris will be in another.

You give me a choice between Taylor and Najee Harris, I take Taylor 15 out of 10 times.

[ChoppedWood]

You give me a choice between Taylor and Najee Harris, I take Taylor 15 out of 10 times.

Great. Terrific. And we'll be 8-9, 7-10, 9-8 for the next three years and he will then be completely washed and cut. This type of decision making, is driving Chris Ballard's 8+ year plan...

This TEAM sucks! He is part of the suck, but he has external value. We need to get value to rebuild with complete football players, not a player who can run the ball and do nothing else.

[Dam8610]

Great. Terrific. And we'll be 8-9, 7-10, 9-8 for the next three years and he will then be completely washed and cut. This type of decision making, is driving Chris Ballard's 8+ year plan...

This TEAM sucks! He is part of the suck, but he has external value. We need to get value to rebuild with complete football players, not a player who can run the ball and do nothing else.

You think having more talented football players is not a winning strategy? I'm fairly certain 32 NFL GMs would disagree with your stance here.

[ChoppedWood]

You think having more talented football players is not a winning strategy? I'm fairly certain 32 NFL GMs would disagree with your stance here.

Are you capable of looking at a site such as ESPN and querying won-lost records? Can you look up the Colts record please? Can you google it over the last 8 years and can you report back on how this more talented football player model you speak of, where a guy like JT is viewed as a must have on the roster, has achieved A MOTHERFUCKING THING?

Damn, man, JT is a good runner of the football, he is NOT a good football player! We can't continue to perpetuate this same fucking approach where a guy that isn't good enough, is thought of as some form of "better than "X" type and as such is regarded as a keeper because he is what we are comfortable with. We HAVE to get draft picks and we have to get rid of guys that aren't critical to the team going forward. JT is not a cornerstone part of this team- accept that! Well he is, and that is an indicator that this team is BAD. Other teams would give us draft picks for him- take those and live with a decent bridge running back for a couple years while we transition the whole fucking team.

[Indystu2]

Are you capable of looking at a site such as ESPN and querying won-lost records? Can you look up the Colts record please? Can you google it over the last 8 years and can you report back on how this more talented football player model you speak of, where a guy like JT is viewed as a must have on the roster, has achieved A MOTHERFUCKING THING?

Damn, man, JT is a good runner of the football, he is NOT a good football player! We can't continue to perpetuate this same fucking approach where a guy that isn't good enough, is thought of as some form of "better than "X" type and as such is regarded as a keeper because he is what we are comfortable with. We HAVE to get draft picks and we have to get rid of guys that aren't critical to the team going forward. JT is not a cornerstone part of this team- accept that! Well he is, and that is an indicator that this team is BAD. Other teams would give us draft picks for him- take those and live with a decent bridge running back for a couple years while we transition the whole fucking team.

I prefer to keep JT on the roster while they bring in/draft his replacement...with the new GM and HC next year.

[Dam8610]

Are you capable of looking at a site such as ESPN and querying won-lost records? Can you look up the Colts record please? Can you google it over the last 8 years and can you report back on how this more talented football player model you speak of, where a guy like JT is viewed as a must have on the roster, has achieved A MOTHERFUCKING THING?

Damn, man, JT is a good runner of the football, he is NOT a good football player! We can't continue to perpetuate this same fucking approach where a guy that isn't good enough, is thought of as some form of "better than "X" type and as such is regarded as a keeper because he is what we are comfortable with. We HAVE to get draft picks and we have to get rid of guys that aren't critical to the team going forward. JT is not a cornerstone part of this team- accept that! Well he is, and that is an indicator that this team is BAD. Other teams would give us draft picks for him- take those and live with a decent bridge running back for a couple years while we transition the whole fucking team.

Judging Ballard on his record is almost as stupid as wanting Najee Harris over Jonathan Taylor.

[ChoppedWood]

Judging Ballard on his record is almost as stupid as wanting Najee Harris over Jonathan Taylor.

Yeah because there are a LOT of other measures to gauge him by. So, then he should just be GM for life right, I mean if you aren't going to use the W/L record of the team he runs as the measure of his success / failure?

As usual you live an a world that makes zero fucking sense unless it is twisted to support some fucked up weird ass view you have.

[Indystu2]

Yeah because there are a LOT of other measures to gauge him by. So, then he should just be GM for life right, I mean if you aren't going to use the W/L record of the team he runs as the measure of his success / failure?

As usual you live an a world that makes zero fucking sense unless it is twisted to support some fucked up weird as view you have.

Wow

[rm1369]

Ballard had Luck for 2 seasons, spent 4 seasons trying to find a solution at QB, then there's been 2 seasons of AR so far. If you give up on Ballard, you're probably giving up on AR as well. A new front office certainly wouldn't be tied to him. I think giving AR one more year is the best option, because I feel like he's either going to develop into the franchise QB that the front office envisioned or he'll do poorly enough to get the team a top 5 pick so that when they move on, the new front office will be in good position to get their franchise QB. To me, that also means giving Ballard 1 more year, because he is tied to AR, which makes him motivated to put the best team around him to allow him to succeed, moreso than a new regime would be.

Tired ass argument. Basically stating he’s not been good because he doesn’t have an elite QB. Fuck, most GMs would appear competent if they had an elite QB. WTF about the rest of the team? Fuck QB, you guys always give him that out. WTF about the shit D? WTF about the culture that obviously isn’t about winning?

He’s going to be motivated to support AR?! Why the fuck now? Why not last year? Why not this year? Ballard is exactly this. “Next year” You know how many years we’ve been saying that with him? Every fucking one. And that goes for when he had Luck and thought the smart thing to do was slow roll a rebuild WITH an elite QB. Now you think he’s all of a sudden going to change? I want him gone BECAUSE I want AR to have a chance to succeed. We know what Ballard builds. I’ve watched every game of his shit product.

[omahacolt]

Fair enough. Was just looking at RB's that:
- Can actually perform in all three phases
- Are available
- Aren't pussies
- Aren't known to be incompetent players that are a lock to make numerous stupid plays throughout the year
- Aren't gonna be real expensive
- Will be a player that 1-2 years from now can easily say "thanks for your services, our 2nd / 3rd round pick will now take the starting spot, good luck in the future, or you can stay here as a back up for $150 gift card going forward".

There are probably 10+ that meet these criteria and would be perfectly suited to replace a player that is WAY fucking over paid for what he really is.
najee Harris is terrible

even suggesting him makes me question every post you makie

[rm1369]

Judging Ballard on his record is almost as stupid as wanting Najee Harris over Jonathan Taylor.

What do you judge him by? The stellar D he’s built? The culture in the locker room? His stellar selection of coaches? Let me guess - cap space saved / rolled over! I can see why as a Ballard supporter performance is a criteria you’d avoid. But I’m very curious what it is you think he does so well. Draft OL? That’s about the best thing I can think of. Sure AF isn’t drafting DE or CB. Sure as fuck isn’t evaluating QBs.

[ChaosTheory]

Judging Ballard on his record is almost as stupid as wanting Najee Harris over Jonathan Taylor.

Well, also leads him to claim Grigson was better.

Just drowning in nuance with that kind of analysis.

[IndyNorm]

Well, also leads him to claim Grigson was better.

Just drowning in nuance with that kind of analysis.

Yes, Ballard is better than Grigson. Anyone with half a brain knows that. But the fact that we're not any better (and probably worse) than we were in 2019 after Luck bailed on the team goes to show that Ballard is nowhere near as good as his supporters think he is.

[ChaosTheory]

Yes, Ballard is better than Grigson. Anyone with half a brain knows that. But the fact that we're not any better (and probably worse) than we were in 2019 after Luck bailed on the team goes to show that Ballard is nowhere near as good as his supporters think he is.

So then he'll be gone, likely won't have any suitors, and we'll bring in a better GM (not difficult to upgrade, I mean look how he talks and wears his hat).

Makes you salivate thinking of all the other teams' good players that will sign with us.

[DragonTails]

Just read an article about John Gruden and landing spots.

I don't think he has much left but neither does SS.

[IndyNorm]

So then he'll be gone, likely won't have any suitors, and we'll bring in a better GM (not difficult to upgrade, I mean look how he talks and wears his hat).

Makes you salivate thinking of all the other teams' good players that will sign with us.

Oh things could get worse, but they could be much better too. Personally I really like Chopped's idea of bringing in John Dorsey at GM and Ben Johnson as HC. Should be super easy to convince them to come here since Ballard has put together such a stacked roster for them to inherit.

[YDFL Commish]

najee Harris is terrible

even suggesting him makes me question every post you makie

Plus Najee is a pussy. If you don't believe know me, ask Zaire. He called Najee a pussy, and he should know, after all it takes one to know one.

[Dam8610]

What do you judge him by? The stellar D he’s built? The culture in the locker room? His stellar selection of coaches? Let me guess - cap space saved / rolled over! I can see why as a Ballard supporter performance is a criteria you’d avoid. But I’m very curious what it is you think he does so well. Draft OL? That’s about the best thing I can think of. Sure AF isn’t drafting DE or CB. Sure as fuck isn’t evaluating QBs.

Mostly what he's done with the resources he's been given. Andrew Luck's retirement was unprecedented in NFL history. Before Luck's retirement, the Colts were considered Super Bowl contenders in 2019. That doesn't happen with a bad GM, see Ryan Grigson's tenure for proof of that. Ballard has since continued to find talent throughout the draft and turn bad situations into better ones for the most part. He's also added value to the team through free agency, just not generally by making splashy signings. Denico Autry, Eric Ebron, Kenny Moore, Justin Houston, Stephon Gilmore, and Samuel Womack are some examples from the top of my head of players that were brought in and significantly outperformed the contract they were signed to. All of it goes to show the massive importance of the QB position in the NFL. If you have one, you can be a perennial playoff contender without even having a great roster around that guy. If you don't have one, you can put together great rosters around them and still miss the playoffs. That being said, with how important that makes getting the QB position right, if you can't find the right guy as a GM, eventually the team has to move on to try to find someone who can.

I feel the evaluation of AR is incomplete at this point. It's not looking like it's going in a great direction, but given his youth and talent, it's not unreasonable to think he could turn a corner and become the franchise guy, which would bring the division titles and postseason success, the lack of which the anti-Ballard crowd is complaining about. That said, the margin of error for that outcome has gone down. To me, next year is it. It's postseason or bust, and I think that has to happen with AR being the factor that puts the Colts in the postseason. If he doesn't, I think it would be time to clean house at that point.

Yes, Ballard is better than Grigson. Anyone with half a brain knows that. But the fact that we're not any better (and probably worse) than we were in 2019 after Luck bailed on the team goes to show that Ballard is nowhere near as good as his supporters think he is.

To me, that unequivocally demonstrates the importance of having a franchise QB on your roster. Player for player, this roster stacks up with just about any roster in the NFL at every position except for QB and TE. The lack at QB is why the team has struggled.

[IndyNorm]

To me, that unequivocally demonstrates the importance of having a franchise QB on your roster. Player for player, this roster stacks up with just about any roster in the NFL at every position except for QB and TE. The lack at QB is why the team has struggled.

No, it doesn't. Take the defense for example, which has nothing to do w/ the QB. Ours is a complete shit show despite all kinds of draft capital Ballard has put into it. Granted part of that is a Bradley's god awful scheme, but a big part of that is the players as well.

[ChoppedWood]

Mostly what he's done with the resources he's been given. Andrew Luck's retirement was unprecedented in NFL history. Before Luck's retirement, the Colts were considered Super Bowl contenders in 2019. That doesn't happen with a bad GM, see Ryan Grigson's tenure for proof of that. Ballard has since continued to find talent throughout the draft and turn bad situations into better ones for the most part. He's also added value to the team through free agency, just not generally by making splashy signings. Denico Autry, Eric Ebron, Kenny Moore, Justin Houston, Stephon Gilmore, and Samuel Womack are some examples from the top of my head of players that were brought in and significantly outperformed the contract they were signed to. All of it goes to show the massive importance of the QB position in the NFL. If you have one, you can be a perennial playoff contender without even having a great roster around that guy. If you don't have one, you can put together great rosters around them and still miss the playoffs. That being said, with how important that makes getting the QB position right, if you can't find the right guy as a GM, eventually the team has to move on to try to find someone who can.

I feel the evaluation of AR is incomplete at this point. It's not looking like it's going in a great direction, but given his youth and talent, it's not unreasonable to think he could turn a corner and become the franchise guy, which would bring the division titles and postseason success, the lack of which the anti-Ballard crowd is complaining about. That said, the margin of error for that outcome has gone down. To me, next year is it. It's postseason or bust, and I think that has to happen with AR being the factor that puts the Colts in the postseason. If he doesn't, I think it would be time to clean house at that point.



To me, that unequivocally demonstrates the importance of having a franchise QB on your roster. Player for player, this roster stacks up with just about any roster in the NFL at every position except for QB and TE. The lack at QB is why the team has struggled.

Shut the fuck up! How in the fuck to you convince yourself of this bullshit?

[AlwaysSunnyinIndy]

Bean will be back next season per his agent:

https://x.com/TesslerSports/status/1876283524770312461

The Indianapolis Colts just signed my client Jason Bean (QB, Kansas) to a new contract for 2025.

Was one of the top QBs in last year's preseason and with a year of development under his belt figures to play a much bigger role next season.

[rm1369]

Mostly what he's done with the resources he's been given. Andrew Luck's retirement was unprecedented in NFL history. Before Luck's retirement, the Colts were considered Super Bowl contenders in 2019. That doesn't happen with a bad GM, see Ryan Grigson's tenure for proof of that. Ballard has since continued to find talent throughout the draft and turn bad situations into better ones for the most part. He's also added value to the team through free agency, just not generally by making splashy signings. Denico Autry, Eric Ebron, Kenny Moore, Justin Houston, Stephon Gilmore, and Samuel Womack are some examples from the top of my head of players that were brought in and significantly outperformed the contract they were signed to. All of it goes to show the massive importance of the QB position in the NFL. If you have one, you can be a perennial playoff contender without even having a great roster around that guy. If you don't have one, you can put together great rosters around them and still miss the playoffs. That being said, with how important that makes getting the QB position right, if you can't find the right guy as a GM, eventually the team has to move on to try to find someone who can.

I feel the evaluation of AR is incomplete at this point. It's not looking like it's going in a great direction, but given his youth and talent, it's not unreasonable to think he could turn a corner and become the franchise guy, which would bring the division titles and postseason success, the lack of which the anti-Ballard crowd is complaining about. That said, the margin of error for that outcome has gone down. To me, next year is it. It's postseason or bust, and I think that has to happen with AR being the factor that puts the Colts in the postseason. If he doesn't, I think it would be time to clean house at that point.



To me, that unequivocally demonstrates the importance of having a franchise QB on your roster. Player for player, this roster stacks up with just about any roster in the NFL at every position except for QB and TE. The lack at QB is why the team has struggled.

So again, your argument seems to be Ballard would look like a good GM if he had a great QB to cover the rosters flaws. To which I guess I say…..No, shit? There are few GMs that wouldn’t be the case for. Hell, let’s not forget that Grigson had more playoff success than Ballard has ever had. Yes absolutely based on having Luck. So the argument that they were seen as a SB contender with Luck on the roster says shit about Ballard and the roster he’d built. It speaks only about the value of an elite QB.

Has Ballard found value with some FA signings? Sure. By definition anyone he signs will be a value because that’s all he signs, bargain basement value players. And then he willingly leaves massive holes that he throws a bunch of cheap guys at. The team suffers from it every year, but then when a Womack plays a little better than expected Ballard’s fan base sees it as evidence of his genius. Never mind the constant collapse of the D against shit teams, Ballard has a guy playing better than his contract - that’s a win. No the fuck it’s not. This D is 1000% Ballard. The coach, the scheme, and every single fucking player is of Ballard’s doing. And it’s shit.

This team didn’t miss the playoffs because of the QB play. It missed the playoff because of the rest of the roster. Specifically the play of the D in several games. Don’t get me wrong, yes this is a playoff team with elite or above average QB play. But most teams would be. Especially in this shit division. That to me does not say Ballard has done anything worth while with the rest of the roster. I can’t look at the performance of this D and say Ballard has built anything significant in his 8 years. Mediocre. I guess to you that’s ok. And you see mediocre as at least better than bad. I see it as proof that Ballard is always going to be mediocre. Give him an above average or elite QB and his teams are going to underperform expectations, just as they do now every year.

And that doesn’t even touch on the culture of this team known for its melt downs. And the melts downs are not caused by the QB situation, IMO it’s caused by Ballard’s philosophy of no accountability, gifting positions to shit players, lack of respect for veterans, and his lack of ability to ever assemble a complete team. Which is ironic because when he was slow rolling the build with Luck on the roster he said it was because he wanted to build a team not dependent on just the QB. I think it’s safe to say he failed even in HIS stated goal. 8 years in and he continues to give us significantly flawed teams. Teams that are at best OK in areas, but excel at none. Teams with huge big gaping holes that are routinely exploited. He just needs that elite QB to cover for him I guess.

Which brings us to the fact that if it all comes down to the QB, Ballard has shown absolutely no fucking clue as to what to do there. None. Comically bad. Grigson level bad. Rivers was a good move but then he did jack shit with the rest of the roster. He kept going retreads and kept being middle of the pact so he and his supporters could say he was drafting too low to get his guy. Of course he’d never roll the dice and go get his fucking guy. No he couldn’t risk it and pay the price, we’d rather fail with retread after retread. Stay on the treadmill at mediocre. Until Irsay stepped in. And let’s be clear about that - AR is not Ballard’s plan. He only had a shot at AR because Irsay stepped in. And I’d argue they’ve fucked the AR situation about as well as they could. It’s been a shit show. So you say it’s all about the QB now, WTF exactly gives you any confidence in Ballard’s ability to select and support a QB? He’s failed at every single one he’s had. And he’s currently failing with AR.

[ChoppedWood]

So again, your argument seems to be Ballard would look like a good GM if he had a great QB to cover the rosters flaws. To which I guess I say…..No, shit? There are few GMs that wouldn’t be the case for. Hell, let’s not forget that Grigson had more playoff success than Ballard has ever had. Yes absolutely based on having Luck. So the argument that they were seen as a SB contender with Luck on the roster says shit about Ballard and the roster he’d built. It speaks only about the value of an elite QB.

Has Ballard found value with some FA signings? Sure. By definition anyone he signs will be a value because that’s all he signs, bargain basement value players. And then he willingly leaves massive holes that he throws a bunch of cheap guys at. The team suffers from it every year, but then when a Womack plays a little better than expected Ballard’s fan base sees it as evidence of his genius. Never mind the constant collapse of the D against shit teams, Ballard has a guy playing better than his contract - that’s a win. No the fuck it’s not. This D is 1000% Ballard. The coach, the scheme, and every single fucking player is of Ballard’s doing. And it’s shit.

This team didn’t miss the playoffs because of the QB play. It missed the playoff because of the rest of the roster. Specifically the play of the D in several games. Don’t get me wrong, yes this is a playoff team with elite or above average QB play. But most teams would be. Especially in this shit division. That to me does not say Ballard has done anything worth while with the rest of the roster. I can’t look at the performance of this D and say Ballard has built anything significant in his 8 years. Mediocre. I guess to you that’s ok. And you see mediocre as at least better than bad. I see it as proof that Ballard is always going to be mediocre. Give him an above average or elite QB and his teams are going to underperform expectations, just as they do now every year.

And that doesn’t even touch on the culture of this team known for its melt downs. And the melts downs are not caused by the QB situation, IMO it’s caused by Ballard’s philosophy of no accountability, gifting positions to shit players, lack of respect for veterans, and his lack of ability to ever assemble a complete team. Which is ironic because when he was slow rolling the build with Luck on the roster he said it was because he wanted to build a team not dependent on just the QB. I think it’s safe to say he failed even in HIS stated goal. 8 years in and he continues to give us significantly flawed teams. Teams that are at best OK in areas, but excel at none. Teams with huge big gaping holes that are routinely exploited. He just needs that elite QB to cover for him I guess.

Which brings us to the fact that if it all comes down to the QB, Ballard has shown absolutely no fucking clue as to what to do there. None. Comically bad. Grigson level bad. Rivers was a good move but then he did jack shit with the rest of the roster. He kept going retreads and kept being middle of the pact so he and his supporters could say he was drafting too low to get his guy. Of course he’d never roll the dice and go get his fucking guy. No he couldn’t risk it and pay the price, we’d rather fail with retread after retread. Stay on the treadmill at mediocre. Until Irsay stepped in. And let’s be clear about that - AR is not Ballard’s plan. He only had a shot at AR because Irsay stepped in. And I’d argue they’ve fucked the AR situation about as well as they could. It’s been a shit show. So you say it’s all about the QB now, WTF exactly gives you any confidence in Ballard’s ability to select and support a QB? He’s failed at every single one he’s had. And he’s currently failing with AR.

Medic, medic, we need a medic in the Off Season Moves Thread ASAP... man down, man down...

[Dewey 5]

Mostly what he's done with the resources he's been given. Andrew Luck's retirement was unprecedented in NFL history. Before Luck's retirement, the Colts were considered Super Bowl contenders in 2019. That doesn't happen with a bad GM, see Ryan Grigson's tenure for proof of that. Ballard has since continued to find talent throughout the draft and turn bad situations into better ones for the most part. He's also added value to the team through free agency, just not generally by making splashy signings. Denico Autry, Eric Ebron, Kenny Moore, Justin Houston, Stephon Gilmore, and Samuel Womack are some examples from the top of my head of players that were brought in and significantly outperformed the contract they were signed to. All of it goes to show the massive importance of the QB position in the NFL. If you have one, you can be a perennial playoff contender without even having a great roster around that guy. If you don't have one, you can put together great rosters around them and still miss the playoffs. That being said, with how important that makes getting the QB position right, if you can't find the right guy as a GM, eventually the team has to move on to try to find someone who can.

I feel the evaluation of AR is incomplete at this point. It's not looking like it's going in a great direction, but given his youth and talent, it's not unreasonable to think he could turn a corner and become the franchise guy, which would bring the division titles and postseason success, the lack of which the anti-Ballard crowd is complaining about. That said, the margin of error for that outcome has gone down. To me, next year is it. It's postseason or bust, and I think that has to happen with AR being the factor that puts the Colts in the postseason. If he doesn't, I think it would be time to clean house at that point.



To me, that unequivocally demonstrates the importance of having a franchise QB on your roster. Player for player, this roster stacks up with just about any roster in the NFL at every position except for QB and TE. The lack at QB is why the team has struggled.

You can go ahead & buy Ballard’s snake oil but I am not

[Hoopsdoc]

So again, your argument seems to be Ballard would look like a good GM if he had a great QB to cover the rosters flaws. To which I guess I say…..No, shit? There are few GMs that wouldn’t be the case for. Hell, let’s not forget that Grigson had more playoff success than Ballard has ever had. Yes absolutely based on having Luck. So the argument that they were seen as a SB contender with Luck on the roster says shit about Ballard and the roster he’d built. It speaks only about the value of an elite QB.

Has Ballard found value with some FA signings? Sure. By definition anyone he signs will be a value because that’s all he signs, bargain basement value players. And then he willingly leaves massive holes that he throws a bunch of cheap guys at. The team suffers from it every year, but then when a Womack plays a little better than expected Ballard’s fan base sees it as evidence of his genius. Never mind the constant collapse of the D against shit teams, Ballard has a guy playing better than his contract - that’s a win. No the fuck it’s not. This D is 1000% Ballard. The coach, the scheme, and every single fucking player is of Ballard’s doing. And it’s shit.

This team didn’t miss the playoffs because of the QB play. It missed the playoff because of the rest of the roster. Specifically the play of the D in several games. Don’t get me wrong, yes this is a playoff team with elite or above average QB play. But most teams would be. Especially in this shit division. That to me does not say Ballard has done anything worth while with the rest of the roster. I can’t look at the performance of this D and say Ballard has built anything significant in his 8 years. Mediocre. I guess to you that’s ok. And you see mediocre as at least better than bad. I see it as proof that Ballard is always going to be mediocre. Give him an above average or elite QB and his teams are going to underperform expectations, just as they do now every year.

And that doesn’t even touch on the culture of this team known for its melt downs. And the melts downs are not caused by the QB situation, IMO it’s caused by Ballard’s philosophy of no accountability, gifting positions to shit players, lack of respect for veterans, and his lack of ability to ever assemble a complete team. Which is ironic because when he was slow rolling the build with Luck on the roster he said it was because he wanted to build a team not dependent on just the QB. I think it’s safe to say he failed even in HIS stated goal. 8 years in and he continues to give us significantly flawed teams. Teams that are at best OK in areas, but excel at none. Teams with huge big gaping holes that are routinely exploited. He just needs that elite QB to cover for him I guess.

Which brings us to the fact that if it all comes down to the QB, Ballard has shown absolutely no fucking clue as to what to do there. None. Comically bad. Grigson level bad. Rivers was a good move but then he did jack shit with the rest of the roster. He kept going retreads and kept being middle of the pact so he and his supporters could say he was drafting too low to get his guy. Of course he’d never roll the dice and go get his fucking guy. No he couldn’t risk it and pay the price, we’d rather fail with retread after retread. Stay on the treadmill at mediocre. Until Irsay stepped in. And let’s be clear about that - AR is not Ballard’s plan. He only had a shot at AR because Irsay stepped in. And I’d argue they’ve fucked the AR situation about as well as they could. It’s been a shit show. So you say it’s all about the QB now, WTF exactly gives you any confidence in Ballard’s ability to select and support a QB? He’s failed at every single one he’s had. And he’s currently failing with AR.

QB play was absolutely a big reason we missed the playoffs. AR stunk and Old Man Flacco turned back into a pumpkin.

I think culture is one of the biggest problems this team has. They’ve got like one or two actual dudes on the roster.

The rest is posers like Franklin, JT, and AR.

That’s my biggest problem with Ballard. The lack of culture is completely his fault.

[IndyNorm]

QB play was absolutely a big reason we missed the playoffs. AR stunk and Old Man Flacco turned back into a pumpkin.

I think culture is one of the biggest problems this team has. They’ve got like one or two actual dudes on the roster.

The rest is posers like Franklin, JT, and AR.

That’s my biggest problem with Ballard. The lack of culture is completely his fault.

No doubt QB play was an issue this year, but I think the D across the board was a bigger factor in us missing the playoffs. We scored 33 and 34 points respectively in the NYG and Jagoffs losses, which is more than enough to have won comfortably if our D had actually shown up. Shit, we could have given up double NYG's average ppg and still won w/ 33 points.

Fully agree on culture. Way too many turds on this roster that are more worried about things like talking shit on podcasts instead of winning football games. I seriously doubt he does it, but Ballard really needs to send the top d-bags packing and bring in some well respected vets from winning franchises to turn the locker room around (Cory Redding/Cornelius Bennett type signings).

[ChoppedWood]

No doubt QB play was an issue this year, but I think the D across the board was a bigger factor in us missing the playoffs. We scored 33 and 34 points respectively in the NYG and Jagoffs losses, which is more than enough to have won comfortably if our D had actually shown up. Shit, we could have given up double NYG's average ppg and still won w/ 33 points.

Fully agree on culture. Way too many turds on this roster that are more worried about things like talking shit on podcasts instead of winning football games. I seriously doubt he does it, but Ballard really needs to send the top d-bags packing and bring in some well respected vets from winning franchises to turn the locker room around (Cory Redding/Cornelius Bennett type signings).

He won't. He likes his guys. The so-called Turds, those aren't Turds, they are Ballards!

The present time is 2:00 PM ET

Gus Bradley is still the DC of the Indianapolis Colts

JIM IRSAY YOU ARE A DISGRACE!

[IndyNorm]

To me, that unequivocally demonstrates the importance of having a franchise QB on your roster. Player for player, this roster stacks up with just about any roster in the NFL at every position except for QB and TE. The lack at QB is why the team has struggled.

Not to beat a dead horse, but I'm just flabbergasted by this statement. Do you honestly believe that our defense stacks up w/ just about any other NFL roster after having watched them get flat out embarrassed by crap offenses like the Giants, Jagoffs, Cheats, Tits, and Jets all year long? If so then please PM me b/c I have some ocean front property in southwest Ohio that I'd like to sell you.

[rm1369]

No doubt QB play was an issue this year, but I think the D across the board was a bigger factor in us missing the playoffs. We scored 33 and 34 points respectively in the NYG and Jagoffs losses, which is more than enough to have won comfortably if our D had actually shown up. Shit, we could have given up double NYG's average ppg and still won w/ 33 points.

Fully agree on culture. Way too many turds on this roster that are more worried about things like talking shit on podcasts instead of winning football games. I seriously doubt he does it, but Ballard really needs to send the top d-bags packing and bring in some well respected vets from winning franchises to turn the locker room around (Cory Redding/Cornelius Bennett type signings).

Exactly. My point is that the playoffs were well within reach for this team with this schedule in this division if they had a good D, even with the current level of QB play. That is all on Ballard. And it’s not the first year that’s been the case. That’s not to even mention the culture. And as I’ve pointed out before - Ballard claimed he didn’t need vets because his coaches would establish the culture. And for several years he employed a specialist just to pick guys with good attitudes. So just like the D, the culture isn’t an accident. It is exactly what Ballard has purposely built over 8 years.

[Dam8610]

He won't. He likes his guys. The so-called Turds, those aren't Turds, they are Ballards!

The present time is 2:00 PM ET

Gus Bradley is still the DC of the Indianapolis Colts

JIM IRSAY YOU ARE A DISGRACE!

What's funny about this is that he's not. His contract ended this season. They would have to re-sign him to retain him.

Not to beat a dead horse, but I'm just flabbergasted by this statement. Do you honestly believe that our defense stacks up w/ just about any other NFL roster after having watched them get flat out embarrassed by crap offenses like the Giants, Jagoffs, Cheats, Tits, and Jets all year long? If so then please PM me b/c I have some ocean front property in southwest Ohio that I'd like to sell you.

Defensively the team's biggest weakness to me is at LB. I suppose they don't really stack up there, either. Franklin and Speed should both be gone, play Carlies and Harrison if you need to. Olubi is an option as well, or draft someone.

That said, yes, for the most part, I feel like the defense is better than what the numbers indicate, in large part because in over half of the games, the offense was putting the defense in terrible spots. How many games did opponents have 2:1 TOP advantage this year? Some of that was on the defense, more of it was on the offense having far too many 3 and outs and far too little success. Also I agree with most here that Bradley's scheme is not the best at maximizing the skillsets of our players. I think with a different DC, the same defenders would perform better.

[Dewey 5]

Not to beat a dead horse, but I'm just flabbergasted by this statement. Do you honestly believe that our defense stacks up w/ just about any other NFL roster after having watched them get flat out embarrassed by crap offenses like the Giants, Jagoffs, Cheats, Tits, and Jets all year long? If so then please PM me b/c I have some ocean front property in southwest Ohio that I'd like to sell you.

Dam needs to submit himself to drug testing immediately

[omahacolt]

What's funny about this is that he's not. His contract ended this season. They would have to re-sign him to retain him.



Defensively the team's biggest weakness to me is at LB. I suppose they don't really stack up there, either. Franklin and Speed should both be gone, play Carlies and Harrison if you need to. Olubi is an option as well, or draft someone.

That said, yes, for the most part, I feel like the defense is better than what the numbers indicate, in large part because in over half of the games, the offense was putting the defense in terrible spots. How many games did opponents have 2:1 TOP advantage this year? Some of that was on the defense, more of it was on the offense having far too many 3 and outs and far too little success. Also I agree with most here that Bradley's scheme is not the best at maximizing the skillsets of our players. I think with a different DC, the same defenders would perform better.

dude even Buckner said they were fucking terrible this year.


can't tackle, play the run, rush the passer, or cover anyone. what the fuck are you smoking?

[YDFL Commish]

I'll start with Bradley because he is the most likely domino too fall. Candidates I think that the Colts should consider are;

Eberflus: Hey, he had the 9th ranked defense before he left, he preached and got turnovers, no loafs, and hustle to the ball.

Rex Ryan: Only because the culture change would be seismic.

Rob Ryan: " " "

Robert Saleh: I'm in the corner of meh on this one, because I've heard from the talking heads that he plays a very similar scheme to Bradley.

Mike Caldwell: My surprise candidate. He did a damn good job in Jax before numb nut Pederson fired him. Now look at the sad sack Jags defense.

I'm adding Jerrod Mayo and Lou Anarumo to this list anyone have a favorite?

[IndyNorm]

Dam needs to submit himself to drug testing immediately

That, and if I ever decide to start a cult or a pyramid scheme he'll be one of the first people I contact w/ such a great opportunity :D

[Hoopsdoc]

Watching the replay, I think pretty much the entire defense needs to be replaced.

At a minimum, Blackmon, Speed, and Franklin need to go. I’d also look into replacing Paye and both starting corners. Or at least bring in competition at cornerback.

Ballard needs to dip into free agency this offseason.

The defense needs a complete reboot. A new coordinator and a bunch of new players.

I think the offense is ok, at least outside of quarterback. Got pieces to work with on the OLine, got 3 good receivers coming back, and JT at running back.

We just need better quarterback play on offense.

I really don’t think we’re that far off, except at the most important positions.

[ChoppedWood]

Watching the replay, I think pretty much the entire defense needs to be replaced.

At a minimum, Blackmon, Speed, and Franklin need to go. I’d also look into replacing Paye and both starting corners. Or at least bring in competition at cornerback.

Ballard needs to dip into free agency this offseason.

The defense needs a complete reboot. A new coordinator and a bunch of new players.

I think the offense is ok, at least outside of quarterback. Got pieces to work with on the OLine, got 3 good receivers coming back, and JT at running back.

We just need better quarterback play on offense.

I really don’t think we’re that far off, except at the most important positions.

We like our guys.

[IndyNorm]

Defensively the team's biggest weakness to me is at LB. I suppose they don't really stack up there, either. Franklin and Speed should both be gone, play Carlies and Harrison if you need to. Olubi is an option as well, or draft someone.

That said, yes, for the most part, I feel like the defense is better than what the numbers indicate, in large part because in over half of the games, the offense was putting the defense in terrible spots. How many games did opponents have 2:1 TOP advantage this year? Some of that was on the defense, more of it was on the offense having far too many 3 and outs and far too little success. Also I agree with most here that Bradley's scheme is not the best at maximizing the skillsets of our players. I think with a different DC, the same defenders would perform better.

Agree that both Bradley and the LBs suck and should be replaced. The secondary is definitely below average and needs multiple upgrades. The DL is really good on paper but really underachieved this year. At the very least we need to bring in better depth at DT, b/c when either Defo and Grover are not in the game it becomes a shit show.

And yes in some games the O didn't do the D any favors, but in our D's worst performances this year that wasn't the case. In fact of the 5 games I listed we won TOP in 4 of them, and the O rarely put the D in a bad position in those games as well. For instance the shortest TD drive the Giants (who scored the most against us in their last 9 seasons BTW) was 56 yards, and 4 of their 5 TDs were all 70 yards.

[IndyNorm]

Watching the replay, I think pretty much the entire defense needs to be replaced.

At a minimum, Blackmon, Speed, and Franklin need to go. I’d also look into replacing Paye and both starting corners. Or at least bring in competition at cornerback.

Ballard needs to dip into free agency this offseason.

The defense needs a complete reboot. A new coordinator and a bunch of new players.

I think the offense is ok, at least outside of quarterback. Got pieces to work with on the OLine, got 3 good receivers coming back, and JT at running back.

We just need better quarterback play on offense.

I really don’t think we’re that far off, except at the most important positions.

I think we need a true #1 TE as well. Hopefully Warren is there when we draft, but I'm not going to hold my breath.

[Hoopsdoc]

I think we need a true #1 TE as well. Hopefully Warren is there when we draft, but I'm not going to hold my breath.

I came back to edit my post and add that we need a legit tight end. No more mixing a stew of MAC, Gransen, Ogletree, and the other dude who’s always hurt and expecting crab bisque in the pot.

I wonder how different the season would have gone had they managed to get Bowers in the draft last year.

[apballin]

I came back to edit my post and add that we need a legit tight end. No more mixing a stew of MAC, Gransen, Ogletree, and the other dude who’s always hurt and expecting crab bisque in the pot.

I wonder how different the season would have gone had they managed to get Bowers in the draft last year.

Wouldn’t have mattered with the instability at QB

[sherck]

IMO, our greatest off-season moves needed are:

#1 - A true #1 TE who will help our young, inexperienced QB more than anything else would.

#2 - A stud CB that most likely should come from free agency. We need someone who can play #1 WRs straight up man-to-man and erase them our at least limit them.

#3 - A stud LB the likes of which we have not had since, really, the younger days of Leonard.

Honestly, if our QB can play up to NFL quality (which, IMO, I don't think he can), then the 2024 verison of the Colts with the above additions I think puts us in pretty good shape.

Alas, I don't think AR is the guy. The above additions are really then building blocks for the next re-build of the Colts.

But, that is my two cents.

[ChaosTheory]

I think we need a true #1 TE as well. Hopefully Warren is there when we draft, but I'm not going to hold my breath.

I think I jinxed us. I mentioned him in like early December when he was projected late 1st-round... Ever since then, he just keeps going up and up the boards.

The stock exchange guys have him like right where we're picking currently... but I've seen him ranked as high as #6 overall. Pump the brakes, pundits.

[Colts And Orioles]

o


Regarding the off-season (for the Colts), Cletus started a playoff thread in the NFL section ...... it's for all of the playoff games in the Wildcard, Divisional, and Conference Championship playoff rounds.


http://www.coltfreaks.com/forum/showthread.php?t=194050



I'll start a separate thread for the Super Bowl, when that time comes.

o

[Colts And Orioles]

o


Some general off-season advice for the Colts ...... don't chase points with 2-point conversions until the final 7 or 8 minutes of the 4th quarter.


*****************************************


In today's AFC playoff game in northwestern New York State, the Ravens scored a TD in the 3rd quarter to cut their deficit to 21-19 against the Bills.

The Ravens decided NOT to kick the extra point ...... they went for 2, did not convert, and the score remained 21-19.

Sure enough, the Bills wound up kicking 2 FG's to increase their lead to 27-19 ...... and when the Ravens scored a TD with less than 2 minutes to play in the 4th quarter, they were down by 2 points because of the fact that they chased the points on their previous touchdown. So instead of being able to kick the extra point to tie the game they had to go for 2, and failed.

o

[Racehorse]

o


Some general off-season advice for the Colts ...... don't chase points with 2-point conversions until the final 7 or 8 minutes of the 4th quarter.


*****************************************


In today's AFC playoff game in northwestern New York State, the Ravens scored a TD in the 3rd quarter to cut their deficit to 21-19 against the Bills.

The Ravens decided NOT to kick the extra point ...... they went for 2, did not convert, and the score remained 21-19.

Sure enough, the Bills wound up kicking 2 FG's to increase their lead to 27-19 ...... and when the Ravens scored a TD with less than 2 minutes to play in the 4th quarter, they were down by 2 points because of the fact that they chased the points on their previous touchdown. So instead of being able to kick the extra point to tie the game they had to go for 2, and failed.

o
You know this, I know this, and so does this board. The question is this: Does Shane?

[Colts And Orioles]

o


Over in the NFL section ......


http://www.coltfreaks.com/forum/showthread.php?p=319666&posted=1#post319666



I gave a critique of Tom Brady's critique in regard to the Commanders' decisions to got for it or not go for it on 4th down ...... perhaps some food-for-thought for the Colts' decision-making for their offense in the 2025 season.

o

[Colts And Orioles]

o


(SUPER BOWL 59 THREAD)



http://www.coltfreaks.com/forum/showthread.php?t=194809

o

[YDFL Commish]

[QUOTE=Colts And Orioles;319668]o


Over in the NFL section ......


http://www.coltfreaks.com/forum/showthread.php?p=319666&posted=1#pos t319666



I gave a critique of Tom Brady's critique in regard to the Commanders' decisions to got for it or not go for it on 4th down ...... perhaps some food-for-thought for the Colts' decision-making for their offense in the 2025 season.

o

Brady really sucks as an analyst. Truly atrocious. I can't stand Romo or Collinsworth ether. For my money Aikman is the best in the business, and it's not even close.

[YDFL Commish]

Now, let's get this thread back on track! Almost every mock draft has us taking Tyler Warren at 14. I will be elated if that happens. The draft is fairly deep at TE and DT, all Colts needs. This draft is extremely deep at RB. Please draft a JT replacement!

On the FA front, I saw PFF linking us to LB Drew Greenlaw. Fuck that! That's bad football over paying for a off the ball LB.

I've also seen a lot of traction on the Javon Holland front...which I'm fine with. But, please Ballard, just keep adding DB's and let them fight it out.

Also is there any chance that Rodney Thomas begins to show his rookie potential?

[Dam8610]

Now, let's get this thread back on track! Almost every mock draft has us taking Tyler Warren at 14. I will be elated if that happens. The draft is fairly deep at TE and DT, all Colts needs. This draft is extremely deep at RB. Please draft a JT replacement!

On the FA front, I saw PFF linking us to LB Drew Greenlaw. Fuck that! That's bad football over paying for a off the ball LB.

I've also seen a lot of traction on the Javon Holland front...which I'm fine with. But, please Ballard, just keep adding DB's and let them fight it out.

Also is there any chance that Rodney Thomas begins to show his rookie potential?

Jevon Holland, Paulson Adebo, Zack Baun, and one of the good young 3-Techs available would be a great set of signings that would allow the Colts to focus exclusively on BPA in the draft.

[YDFL Commish]

Jevon Holland, Paulson Adebo, Zack Baun, and one of the good young 3-Techs available would be a great set of signings that would allow the Colts to focus exclusively on BPA in the draft.

Baun is a heck of a player. I just don't believe that paying for an elite off the ball LB is smart roster management.

[Colts And Orioles]

o


It may or may not happen ......



Colts Named a Top Landing Spot for Former 1st-Round Pick At QB

(By Paul Bretl)

https://coltswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/09/colts-named-top-landing-spot-for-former-first-round-pick-quarterback/

o

[YDFL Commish]

o


It may or may not happen ......



Colts Named a Top Landing Spot for Former 1st-Round Pick At QB

(By Paul Bretl)

https://coltswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/09/colts-named-top-landing-spot-for-former-first-round-pick-quarterback/

o

I'm down with this.

[Dam8610]

Baun is a heck of a player. I just don't believe that paying for an elite off the ball LB is smart roster management.

Depends on what you're paying. Also, the point of the rookie QB contract is to make investments you can't make with a veteran QB contract. Either AR is the answer and we're approaching the end of the financial flexibility his rookie contract provides, or he's not and the Colts will have a new rookie QB contract soon. Either way, now is the time to make what might otherwise not be a prudent cap investment. That said, I doubt the 49ers regret the Warner contract. Warner is better than Baun, but if Baun continues to play at the level he played this year, it's not by much.

[Chromeburn]

o


It may or may not happen ......



Colts Named a Top Landing Spot for Former 1st-Round Pick At QB

(By Paul Bretl)

https://coltswire.usatoday.com/2025/02/09/colts-named-top-landing-spot-for-former-first-round-pick-quarterback/

o

Ballard wanted to draft Fields instead of getting Wentz. I’d be ok with it.

[YDFL Commish]

Apparently Holland might be a headcase. He certainly thinks he's the top dog.

[albany ed]

To me, if the draft is not strong in a certain position, but it's a big need for your team, that's when you go after a free agent.

[Racehorse]

To me, if the draft is not strong in a certain position, but it's a big need for your team, that's when you go after a free agent.

I am hearing this draft is weak in a lot of positions. TE and RB are deep. I think I heard one side of the line was deep, too. QB is as weak as it has been in a while, likely due to the COVID eligibility rules, which allowed older guys to take the spots this group of seniors would have gotten in any other era.

[YDFL Commish]

To me, if the draft is not strong in a certain position, but it's a big need for your team, that's when you go after a free agent.

My approach would be to double down. Let's say that Ballard and team decide that safety is biggest area of need on the roster...then draft one and sign in free agency.

[Dewey 5]

Ballard really screwed up the salary cap situation by running it back with a bunch of scrubs this past season. He had flexibility to really improve the team & completely failed.

[Colts And Orioles]

o


I live in New York State, so I have no idea what this means ...... but it's the off-season, there is very little traffic on the main board here on ColtFreaks, so just in case somebody cares ......



FOX59/CBS4 and the Colts Renew Broadcast Partnership

(By Matt Adams)

https://fox59.com/sports/colts/fox59-cbs4-and-colts-renew-broadcast-partnership/

o

[Racehorse]

o


I live in New York State, so I have no idea what this means ...... but it's the off-season, there is very little traffic on the main board here on ColtFreaks, so just in case somebody cares ......



FOX59/CBS4 and the Colts Renew Broadcast Partnership

(By Matt Adams)

https://fox59.com/sports/colts/fox59-cbs4-and-colts-renew-broadcast-partnership/

o
This site gets dead in the offseason, but the combine is approaching, and then free agency and the draft.

[apballin]

Desmond Ridder would be a great candidate for competition

[YDFL Commish]

Desmond Ridder would be a great candidate for competition

Let's ask Alec Pierce?

[Dam8610]

Rather than dream up my own scenario with no external forces to impact it, here were my results from a mock offseason with 31 other people acting as GMs.

2025 Colts Mock Offseason Summary (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wkmasNRAM4u95ngunYBEl7Yp3zwj1JGf5bzQ6FI_3B4/edit?usp=sharing)

[apballin]

Rather than dream up my own scenario with no external forces to impact it, here were my results from a mock offseason with 31 other people acting as GMs.

2025 Colts Mock Offseason Summary (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wkmasNRAM4u95ngunYBEl7Yp3zwj1JGf5bzQ6FI_3B4/edit?usp=sharing)

I played this out in Madden… I resigned Dayo, Ronnie Harrison and Ryan Kelly

Signed Isiah Simmons to replace Blackmon and Desmond Ridder to compete with AR

Drafted Tyler Warren

I know many people aren’t believers in Madden but ratings wise, Ridder and AR are nearly identical

[Dam8610]

Things I like so far:

Release of Raekwon Davis (https://www.colts.com/news/colts-release-dt-raekwon-davis)

The Indianapolis Colts released defensive tackle Raekwon Davis.

Davis, 6-7, 325 pounds, was signed by Indianapolis as an unrestricted free agent on March 15, 2024. He has played in 80 career games (48 starts) in his time with the Colts (2024) and Miami Dolphins (2020-23) and has compiled 144 tackles (67 solo), 7.0 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks and one pass defensed.

Trey Hendrickson as a trade target at the cost of a 3rd round pick (https://www.stampedeblue.com/2025/3/7/24379913/report-colts-speculated-as-leading-trade-suitor-for-leagues-reigning-sack-tiger-king)

Sent draft pick compensation in NFL trades rarely match the talent of the star player being acquired, especially with Hendrickson due a major contract extension by his next team and recently hitting 30-years-old, so he’d likely be able to be had for a second or third round pick by his next NFL landing spot.

Things I don't like so far:

The Colts seem to be very interested in Daniel Jones as "QB competition" for Richardson (https://www.stampedeblue.com/2025/3/5/24378510/espns-adam-schefter-calls-colts-logical-fit-for-vikings-free-agent-qb-daniel-jones)

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Indianapolis Colts remain a ‘logical fit’ for Minnesota Vikings free agent quarterback Daniel Jones

Steelers, Jets, not Colts, appear to be frontrunner for Justin Fields (https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/steelers-contact-russell-wilson-justin-fields-competing-giants-jets)

The Steelers have maintained an open dialogue with both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields in hopes of retaining one, per sources.

Pittsburgh, however, has competition for retaining either of its 2024 co-starters. Both QBs have a relatively strong market, with the Giants in contention for Wilson and the Jets high on Fields on the eve of free agency, per sources.

[ChaosTheory]

Agreed. I still say Justin Fields is the proper FA QB to pursue given these particular circumstances. Sam Darnold scares me worse than Wentz... Similar to the team that signs Darnold, we banked on Wentz mainly off one season. But Wentz had much better numbers and results in the surrounding seasons than Darnold has.

And Daniel Jones just isn't interesting to me.

Raekwon was virtually a dud.

Hendrickson would obviously be awesome. He's one of the few older vet types I'd support paying for. Thing is, I've read that CIN would want more along the lines of a 1st or multiple day-2 picks, not just a single 3rd-rounder. And that would be on top of the $35m salary he'll want.

[Dam8610]

Agreed. I still say Justin Fields is the proper FA QB to pursue given these particular circumstances. Sam Darnold scares me worse than Wentz... Similar to the team that signs Darnold, we banked on Wentz mainly off one season. But Wentz had much better numbers and results in the surrounding seasons than Darnold has.

And Daniel Jones just isn't interesting to me.

Raekwon was virtually a dud.

Hendrickson would obviously be awesome. He's one of the few older vet types I'd support paying for. Thing is, I've read that CIN would want more along the lines of a 1st or multiple day-2 picks, not just a single 3rd-rounder. And that would be on top of the $35m salary he'll want.

I want a winning lottery ticket, I doubt the Bengals or I get what we want. Further, the articles I've read indicate they're looking for a low 2 to a high 3 to get rid of Trey, to me that's pick 80 for the Colts. Considering the Colts would be paying draft capital for the right to pay a 30 year old $35m+ AAV, I think the 80th pick is more than fair.

As for Fields, I truly believe he is the best combination of talent, system fit, and cost available to create a QB competition with AR this offseason. I'm really hoping Ballard sees it that way as well.

[ChaosTheory]

I want a winning lottery ticket, I doubt the Bengals or I get what we want. Further, the articles I've read indicate they're looking for a low 2 to a high 3 to get rid of Trey, to me that's pick 80 for the Colts. Considering the Colts would be paying draft capital for the right to pay a 30 year old $35m+ AAV, I think the 80th pick is more than fair.

As for Fields, I truly believe he is the best combination of talent, system fit, and cost available to create a QB competition with AR this offseason. I'm really hoping Ballard sees it that way as well.

I just read a trade comp I wasn't thinking of, which would be to exchange 1st rounders. So trade 14th down to 17th + maybe a 5th next year.

Warren is the kid I want and many have him in the top-10, unfortunately for us. After him, there's actually a handful of guys I like, and one will likely be there at 17.

80th straight up is better

[Dewey 5]

Asshole Ballard is going to fuck around & lose Will Fries.

[Racehorse]

Asshole Ballard is going to fuck around & lose Will Fries.

Your opinion? Or have you read something we have not?

[Dewey 5]

Your opinion? Or have you read something we have not?

https://www.si.com/nfl/patriots/news/new-england-patriots-strong-chance-land-will-fries-colts

https://motociclismo.pt/en/jacksonville-jaguars-prepare-for-aggressive-free-agency-with-nearly-38-million-dollars-and-eyes-on-will-fries-as-key-target/

[Racehorse]

https://www.si.com/nfl/patriots/news/new-england-patriots-strong-chance-land-will-fries-colts

https://motociclismo.pt/en/jacksonville-jaguars-prepare-for-aggressive-free-agency-with-nearly-38-million-dollars-and-eyes-on-will-fries-as-key-target/

Those articles say Fries is likely to command a nice salary. We might get priced out of the bidding to teams with a ton more cap. Not sure how you can blame this on Ballard. Everyone knew he was a top FA this year, and everyone knew OL guys are becoming hard to find/develop. That said, I do think his injury might keep his price low enough that we can retain him, and add other pieces. We sit with the 18th most cap space, so we are not in a great position to get into any bidding war.

[Dewey 5]

Those articles say Fries is likely to command a nice salary. We might get priced out of the bidding to teams with a ton more cap. Not sure how you can blame this on Ballard. Everyone knew he was a top FA this year, and everyone knew OL guys are becoming hard to find/develop. That said, I do think his injury might keep his price low enough that we can retain him, and add other pieces. We sit with the 18th most cap space, so we are not in a great position to get into any bidding war.

Ballard blew the cap $ last year running back & re-signing a bunch of jags other than Pittman.

[apballin]

I want a winning lottery ticket, I doubt the Bengals or I get what we want. Further, the articles I've read indicate they're looking for a low 2 to a high 3 to get rid of Trey, to me that's pick 80 for the Colts. Considering the Colts would be paying draft capital for the right to pay a 30 year old $35m+ AAV, I think the 80th pick is more than fair.

As for Fields, I truly believe he is the best combination of talent, system fit, and cost available to create a QB competition with AR this offseason. I'm really hoping Ballard sees it that way as well.

I’ve said Fields since day 1 as long as he’s ok with taking Richardsons job. I think he’d be a great fit in this offense with JT

[Dam8610]

I just read a trade comp I wasn't thinking of, which would be to exchange 1st rounders. So trade 14th down to 17th + maybe a 5th next year.

Warren is the kid I want and many have him in the top-10, unfortunately for us. After him, there's actually a handful of guys I like, and one will likely be there at 17.

80th straight up is better

As seen above, I'm kind of ambivalent on Warren or Loveland, I've also warmed to Emmanwori of late, with Mason Taylor or Elijah Arroyo in Round 2. I could even see going Emmanwori and Darien Porter in the first two rounds, but ideally the Colts would be picking up a decent amount of draft capital in trade downs in that scenario. It might just be easier to say that I hope the Colts come away from the first 2 Days of the draft with as many of these players as possible:

Tyler Warren, Colston Loveland, Mason Taylor, Elijah Arroyo, Nick Emmanwori, Malaki Starks, Xavier Watts, Andrew Mukuba, Lathan Ransom, Shavon Revel Jr., Darien Porter, Benjamin Morrison, Maxwell Hairston, Jacob Parrish, Azareye'h Thomas, Trey Amos, Caleb Ransaw, Derrick Harmon, Darius Alexander, Jihaad Campbell, Carson Schwesinger

With the obvious caveat of limiting positional overlap as much as possible.

[Colts And Orioles]

o


Hey, Jim Irsay set the clocks ahead one hour, and I didn't even know about it until now ...... that man can do anything when he puts his mind to it.

o

[Dewey 5]

o


Hey, Jim Irsay set the clocks ahead one hour, and I didn't even know about it until now ...... that man can do anything when he puts his mind to it.

o

Ballard is still sleeping & when will be for the remainder of the week

[George Wonsley]

https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nfl/colts/2025/03/10/colts-free-agency-braden-smith-revised-contract/82226229007/

Pure fiction. Could never happen.

[ChaosTheory]

Ballard blew the cap $ last year running back & re-signing a bunch of jags other than Pittman.

Pittman, Stewart, and Moore are studs. Despite the distaste a lot of us have for Franklin's off-the-field shit, he just made 2nd-Team All-Pro. Tyquan Lewis is snake-bitten but solid depth.

So why wouldn't Will Fries get labeled a JAG, too?

[ChaosTheory]

https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nfl/colts/2025/03/10/colts-free-agency-braden-smith-revised-contract/82226229007/

Pure fiction. Could never happen.

Good news.

[IndyNorm]

Good news.

Yeah, seems like it. Interested to see what his restructured deal looks like especially since it's not an extension. Obviously he's taking a cut in salary, but I'm guessing there's a games played bonus that will carry into '26.

[ChaosTheory]

Yeah, seems like it. Interested to see what his restructured deal looks like especially since it's not an extension. Obviously he's taking a cut in salary, but I'm guessing there's a games played bonus that will carry into '26.

What's even been the speculation with him? I know the team is tight-lipped... has anybody (insider) offered an explanation?

[IndyNorm]

Agreed. I still say Justin Fields is the proper FA QB to pursue given these particular circumstances. Sam Darnold scares me worse than Wentz... Similar to the team that signs Darnold, we banked on Wentz mainly off one season. But Wentz had much better numbers and results in the surrounding seasons than Darnold has.


Agree on Fields, and IMO Darnold is a MUCH bigger risk than Wentz was. Wentz was only bad in Philly his final year there. At least statistically. Although his stats there were probably better than his actual performance in Philly like they were here. Anyway, Darnold agree to a 3 years for $100M with SEA, so we don't have to worry about that.

And Daniel Jones just isn't interesting to me.

Not only is he not interesting, but he's just objectively a bad QB. What has he actually done other than being drafted about 3 rounds too early by the Giants? I saw that OTC is projecting he'll get $13M for a 1 year deal, which I'll be super pissed if we give him anywhere near that.


Raekwon was virtually a dud.

Agreed. No brainer to cut him.

Hendrickson would obviously be awesome. He's one of the few older vet types I'd support paying for. Thing is, I've read that CIN would want more along the lines of a 1st or multiple day-2 picks, not just a single 3rd-rounder. And that would be on top of the $35m salary he'll want.

No doubt. Although I seriously doubt Ballard will make that move. Especially if he gets into any sort of bidding war.

[IndyNorm]

What's even been the speculation with him? I know the team is tight-lipped... has anybody (insider) offered an explanation?

No explanation from what I've seen.

[ChaosTheory]

Agree on Fields

Jones looking more likely. Darnold to SEA and Fields to NYJ.

[IndyNorm]

Jones looking more likely. Darnold to SEA and Fields to NYJ.

Saw the Darnold deal earlier and now seeing Fields to NYJ for 2 years, $40M w/ $30M guaranteed. Hoping we dodge the bullet on Jones, or if we do sign him then it's dirt cheap.

[apballin]

Rather than dream up my own scenario with no external forces to impact it, here were my results from a mock offseason with 31 other people acting as GMs.

2025 Colts Mock Offseason Summary (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wkmasNRAM4u95ngunYBEl7Yp3zwj1JGf5bzQ6FI_3B4/edit?usp=sharing)

You nailed the Bynum signing

[Hoopsdoc]

Jones looking more likely. Darnold to SEA and Fields to NYJ.

Fields will start in New York rather than competing with AR here.

Unless the Colts were going to be willing to massively overpay, this was a no brainer for Fields. Same for Darnold in Seattle

I’m afraid Daniel Jones may be the best we can hope for.

[apballin]

Fields will start in New York rather than competing with AR here.

Unless the Colts were going to be willing to massively overpay, this was a no brainer for Fields. Same for Darnold in Seattle

I’m afraid Daniel Jones may be the best we can hope for.

I’d rather have Ridder

[IndyNorm]

I’d rather have Ridder

Or Minshew. At the very least both Ridder and Minshew will be cheaper than Jones.

[YDFL Commish]

I’d rather have Ridder

Ridder has absolutely no upside!

[IndyNorm]

Ridder has absolutely no upside!

And Jones does?

[YDFL Commish]

And Jones does?

He has lead a terrible team to a winning record and a playoff victory. Ridder has done nothing and never will.

[IndyNorm]

He has lead a terrible team to a winning record and a playoff victory. Ridder has done nothing and never will.

Jones had a mediocre year (3,200 yards and 15 TDs) on a team w/ a really good running game and a pretty weak schedule. Every other year he's been complete dog shit. So much so that the Giants ate $22M in cap space this year to run his worthless ass out of town. So while you might be right on Ridder, Jones isn't any better and will cost us more.

[apballin]

He has lead a terrible team to a winning record and a playoff victory. Ridder has done nothing and never will.

Ridder didn’t have the luxury of having Saquon Barkley at RB. Also Arthur Smith as a head coach isn’t known for lighting it up on offense. Ridders stats are nearly identical to AR all while playing the position longer and having more experience, only difference is one guy was given up on quickly while the other gets pacified and excused for making a mockery of the QB position with inaccurate passes, poor in game decision making, and stupid turnovers game after game because he’s “ young and raw”

25 games = 63% comp 16Tds 14int 5 rushing TDS - Ridder

15 games = 50% comp 11Tds 13INT 10 rushing TDS -AR

Put Ridder with Steichen and JT and I guarantee you’d see improvement, look how Minshew looked for the raiders this season compared to his season with Steichen

[YDFL Commish]

Jones had a mediocre year (3,200 yards and 15 TDs) on a team w/ a really good running game and a pretty weak schedule. Every other year he's been complete dog shit. So much so that the Giants ate $22M in cap space this year to run his worthless ass out of town. So while you might be right on Ridder, Jones isn't any better and will cost us more.

That's fair, but you are neglecting the 708 rushing yards and 7 rushing TD's w/only 5 int's.

[Dewey 5]

Will Fries is headed to the Vikings for five years and $88 million

[ukcolt]

I am ok with the pickups of Ward and Bynum, but I am not really ready to say that they are great pickups. They certainly fill positions of need.

Ward I do think will immediately be our best outside corner, but he is already 29. Bynum looks similar to Blackmon, but I do profess not to know a huge amount about him, so happy to be proven wrong.

I am also meh about resigning Dulin, at 4m a year I want a good rotational offensive lineman, not a special teamer, who is 5/6th on the depth chart at receiver. He has proven to be a good special teamer, but with the new kickoff rules, i don't believe that this phase of the game is quite as important now. And it is not as if we were a great special teams unit last year.

If we can swing a trade for Raiders TE Mayer for a 5th rounder that fills that position. I don't want to take a TE in the later rounds, as that's exactly what the rest of our TE roster already is. Ogletree is a good inline blocker, Mallory is capable as a route runner, but a liability blocking, and then you have the weirdness that is Jelani Woods, is he able to develop into what he looked like he could become in his rookie season?

The rest of the roster doesn't have any glaring needs. Upgrades could be had of course, at LB, the tackle spot, the third DT and a backup RB and DE depth. But it allows the option of going BPA in the draft.

I am comfortable enough with our starters
Richardson
Taylor
Pittman
Pierce
Downs
Mayer
Raihman
Nelson
Bortolini
Goncalves
Smith

Ebukam
Stewart
Buckner
Paye
Franklin
Carlies
Ward
Jones
Moore
Cross
Bynum

But I would say we only have a few players beyond that, that I am truly comfortable with going forward, Dulin, Ogletree, Lewis, Latu, Adebawore, Brents, Womack.

So that's the 22 starters, 3 special teamers, and 7 others, a total of 32 players. The other 22 players all have yet to justify that they really belong in the NFL on a consistent basis. Even then the 7 others have hardly proven anyhing yet other than Lewis, Latu and probably Brents. There is a lot of work to do to get this roster depth up to standards, to be able to cover any sort of injuries to the starters.

[Dam8610]

Who is the remaining free agent you most want the Colts to sign?

Mine is Levi Onwuzurike.

[ukcolt]

According to Over the cap we currently have just under $12m, but some of that needs to be allocated to the rookie class. So we probably have around $7.5m left without having to redo any contracts.

I wouldn't mind seeing Jedrick Wills come in as a veteran tackle who can play both the left and right side. Hasn't lived up to his draft status, but has started 57 games for the Browns and would be a big upgrade on Blake Freeland as our swing tackle. Also wouldn't mind seeing Nick Chubb in the backfield subbing for Taylor. He isn't the 3rd threat we still need. But any contract for Chubb, would need to be a low deal ($3m) with large incentives.

[AlwaysSunnyinIndy]

According to Over the cap we currently have just under $12m, but some of that needs to be allocated to the rookie class. So we probably have around $7.5m left without having to redo any contracts.



The Colts should have a bit more cap space than that number.

Neither Overthecap nor Spotrac have the details on Braden Smith's re-worked deal yet.

[ChoppedWood]

According to Over the cap we currently have just under $12m, but some of that needs to be allocated to the rookie class. So we probably have around $7.5m left without having to redo any contracts.

I wouldn't mind seeing Jedrick Wills come in as a veteran tackle who can play both the left and right side. Hasn't lived up to his draft status, but has started 57 games for the Browns and would be a big upgrade on Blake Freeland as our swing tackle. Also wouldn't mind seeing Nick Chubb in the backfield subbing for Taylor. He isn't the 3rd threat we still need. But any contract for Chubb, would need to be a low deal ($3m) with large incentives.

Just signed Khalil Herbert to a one year deal. No issues with that one.

[sherck]

IMO, at the end of the day, we are all just treading water until the next Colts QB comes along because I just don't believe that AR is the guy. He is exactly what he has been since his High School days; a great guy with a great personality who has, up until this point, always been the best athlete on the field and succeeded because of that and not his ability to learn to play QB better.

I hope he proves me wrong this season and I get to come back at the end and say that I was wrong....but I don't believe that will be the case. At the end of the season, the Colts will be either looking at Daniel Jones as a long-term solution (which he is not) or heading back into the draft/free agency for our next QB.

All the rest is just.....fluff. Great, strengthen the team where you can and get younger but we are still waiting on our next QB who can win games in the playoffs and be consistently good in regular season.

[Dewey 5]

IMO, at the end of the day, we are all just treading water until the next Colts QB comes along because I just don't believe that AR is the guy. He is exactly what he has been since his High School days; a great guy with a great personality who has, up until this point, always been the best athlete on the field and succeeded because of that and not his ability to learn to play QB better.

I hope he proves me wrong this season and I get to come back at the end and say that I was wrong....but I don't believe that will be the case. At the end of the season, the Colts will be either looking at Daniel Jones as a long-term solution (which he is not) or heading back into the draft/free agency for our next QB.

All the rest is just.....fluff. Great, strengthen the team where you can and get younger but we are still waiting on our next QB who can win games in the playoffs and be consistently good in regular season.

If either don’t work out, & I agree with you that they probably won’t, we’ll have a new HC & GM.

[IndyNorm]

The Colts should have a bit more cap space than that number.

Neither Overthecap nor Spotrac have the details on Braden Smith's re-worked deal yet.

OTC now has the Smith contract details. He took one hell of a paycut going to $8M w/ $0 guaranteed (although he gets a $2M roster bonus on the 5th day of the league year).

[AlwaysSunnyinIndy]

OTC now has the Smith contract details. He took one hell of a paycut going to $8M w/ $0 guaranteed (although he gets a $2M roster bonus on the 5th day of the league year).


The revision will add roughly $9.35M to the Colts cap space this year.

[ChaosTheory]

Did this guy start smoking meth or kill a guy?

[IndyNorm]

The revision will add roughly $9.35M to the Colts cap space this year.

Yep. Forgot to add that we still have $21M in cap space. Maybe a little less as this number doesn't include Herbert, Schrader, or Ballentine, but I doubt any of their signings really change it.

Did this guy start smoking meth or kill a guy?

Yeah, crazy how much of a salary hit he took. Although I don't think he had any guaranteed dollars left and if he makes the team and stays healthy he'll make $8M this year. Guessing he and his agent decided he wouldn't really get more than that on the open market :confused:

[Colts And Orioles]

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In the NFL section, some breaking news .......



http://www.coltfreaks.com/forum/showthread.php?t=198989

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[ChaosTheory]

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In the NFL section, some breaking news .......



http://www.coltfreaks.com/forum/showthread.php?t=198989

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Colts fans' definition of "shocking" regarding a QB retirement is not met.

[Hoopsdoc]

o


In the NFL section, some breaking news .......



http://www.coltfreaks.com/forum/showthread.php?t=198989

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Over 200 million in career earnings. Retired at age 34.

He’s set up for 40 years of doing whatever the hell he wants. Not bad.

Good for him.

[Colts And Orioles]

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In the NFL section, a former division rival has signed a very lucrative extension with the Baltimore Ravens .......



http://www.coltfreaks.com/forum/showthread.php?t=199147

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[Colts And Orioles]

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Colts Apologize to Tyreek Hill, Microsoft for Now-Deleted Video

(By Stephen Holder)

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45161707/colts-apologize-tyreek-hill-microsoft-now-deleted-video

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[Colts And Orioles]

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Over in the NFL section, the 49ers believe in Brock Purdy ...... they just signed him to a $265 Million extension over the course of 5 years.


http://www.coltfreaks.com/forum/showthread.php?p=325016#post325016




Now, if the Colts can somehow resolve l THEIR OWN l franchise QB situation sometime over the next 2 years ......

o

[ChaosTheory]

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Colts Apologize to Tyreek Hill, Microsoft for Now-Deleted Video

(By Stephen Holder)

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45161707/colts-apologize-tyreek-hill-microsoft-now-deleted-video

o

This is one time I'll boo the Colts. Should have kept it.

[IndyNorm]

The Colts brought back DT Eric Johnson. Claimed him off of waivers from the Cheats.

https://www.colts.com/news/colts-claim-dt-eric-johnson-off-waivers-waive-s-marcel-dabo

They also released S Marcel Dabo and designated TE Maximilian Mang, which is a UDFA out of Syracuse, the Exempt/International player.

[Colts And Orioles]

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Colts Apologize to Tyreek Hill, Microsoft for Now-Deleted Video

(By Stephen Holder)

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45161707/colts-apologize-tyreek-hill-microsoft-now-deleted-video

o






This is one time I'll boo the Colts. They should have kept it.





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Tyreek Takes on the Colts

(By Alain Poupart)

https://www.si.com/nfl/dolphins/news/tyreek-takes-on-the-colts-01jvax99apqj

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[Racehorse]

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Tyreek Takes on the Colts

(By Alain Poupart)

https://www.si.com/nfl/dolphins/news/tyreek-takes-on-the-colts-01jvax99apqj

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None of the photos appeared for me.

[Colts And Orioles]

None of the photos appeared for me.





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(From the Article)


Say what you want about Tyreek Hill, but the Miami Dolphins wide receiver can take a joke.

He also can deliver one.


That was on full display in the aftermath of the "controversy" involving the Indianapolis Colts' schedule release video, particularly the very start highlighting their Week 1 game against the Dolphins at Lucas Oil Stadium.

The video took a jab at Hill with a Minecraft cartoon showing him swimming (dolphins, remember) and then getting arrested by the Coast Guard — a reference to Hill getting detained by police prior to the Dolphins' 2024 season against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Hard Rock Stadium.

Eventually, the Colts deleted the video Wednesday night and released a statement Thursday morning: "We removed our schedule release video because it exceeded our rights with Microsoft and included an insensitive clip involving Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill. We sincerely apologize to Microsoft and Tyreek."

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the Colts reached out to Hill's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, to pass along their apology.


Hill later took to X to actually defend the Colts' shot at him.

Tyreek Hill: ) Should’ve left it up @Colts ...... this was funny.


https://x.com/cheetah/status/1923044058865230224


But then Tyreek took it a step further with his own jab at the Colts' social media team, and we've got to give him props for a good joke.

Tyreek Hill: ) The only W the Colts got. ��


https://x.com/cheetah/status/1923091408434364656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5 Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1923091408434364656%7Ctwgr% 5E963a7a455fb8e9a6fc5aae08aad9ce2ce90edb46%7Ctwcon %5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.si.com%2Fnfl%2Fdolphins% 2Fnews%2Ftyreek-takes-on-the-colts-01jvax99apqj

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[Colts And Orioles]

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2025 NFL Offseason ...... AFC Teams’ Best and Worst Deals, Picks, More

(By Bill Barnwell)

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45164455/2025-nfl-offseason-afc-teams-best-worst-deals-contracts-draft-picks-superlatives



Indianapolis Colts

The Superlative: l Most likely to focus on tackling drills in training camp.


It's not a huge stretch to suggest that subpar tackling might have cost the Colts a postseason spot in 2024. According to Pro Football Reference, the Colts whiffed on 157 tackle attempts last season, 23 more than any other team. They faced the fourth-most defensive snaps, which explains some of that chasm, but the tape backs up those numbers. I'm not sure any team had a worse 60 minutes of tackling than the Colts did against the Giants in Week 17, when they allowed 45 points to Drew Lock & Co. and were officially knocked out of the playoff race.

Nobody should be surprised, then, that general manager Chris Ballard's offseason moves aimed to address those tackling woes. At safety, Indianapolis is swapping out Julian Blackmon, who has whiffed on 12% or more of his tackle attempts in four of his five NFL seasons, for former Vikings safety Cam Bynum, whose career missed tackle rate is 7.1%.

At corner, Samuel Womack III (12.2% missed tackle rate) will be replaced by Charvarius Ward, who has the lowest missed tackle rate of any player since entering the league in 2018, per NFL Next Gen Stats. Linebacker E.J. Speed, whose missed tackle rates over the past two seasons were both north of 10%, wasn't re-signed. Jaylon Carlies, who started six games a year ago and should be in line for the full-time job in 2025, missed only 5.3% of his tackles as a rookie.

Will better tackling make the Colts a great defense? No. But this was a team that ranked 30th in third-down conversion rate (44.4%) a year ago, in part because Colts defenders couldn't make tackles short of the sticks. Better tackling will get them off the field.

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[Colts And Orioles]

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100 Days to the 2025 NFL Season: Things to Know, Predictions

(By Ben Solak)

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45282248/2025-nfl-season-100-days-nuggets-predictions-stats-thoughts-lists




11 Jobs With Question Marks


Colts GM Chris Ballard


The Colts have not made the playoffs in the past 4 seasons, and have not won a playoff game in the past six seasons, all under Ballard's direction. They have poured plenty of resources into the passing attack over the past few off-seasons. Aside from drafting QB Anthony Richardson, the Colts spent early picks on WR Josh Downs (3rd round), WR Alec Pierce (2nd round), WR Adonai Mitchell (2nd round), and TE Tyler Warren (1st round). They extended Michael Pittman Jr, and they signed Daniel Jones.

If the Colts cannot figure out a passing offense this season, this time next year is ripe for a hard reset at all key positions ...... quarterback, head coach, and even general manager.


Colts QB


It's rare to see an actual open camp battle at quarterback, but that's what we've got here in Indianapolis. The camp battle format ...... throws against air with no live tackling or pass rush ...... skews toward Daniel Jones, who also has the advantage of being the new kid on the block. But Anthony Richardson still has the potential to be the future of the franchise, whereas Jones would be a stop-gap. Be sure to put your notifications on for Colts reporter Stephen Holder, because this is going to be a barn-burner !!!

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[Colts And Orioles]

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Ranking All 32 NFL Teams’ Coaching Staffs, Coordinators in 2025

(By Ben Solak)

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45859193/ranking-nfl-2025-season-coaching-staffs-best-worst-coaches-coordinators



18) Indianapolis Colts


Head coach: ) Shane Steichen

Offensive coordinator: ) Jim Bob Cooter

Defensive coordinator: ) Lou Anarumo

2024 ranking: ) 11



Both Steichen and Anarumo are hanging their hats on seasons now long past. Steichen's best work was as the Eagles' offensive coordinator in 2022; Anarumo, with the Bengals' defense for a couple of seasons before that. How much longer can they trade on those peaks? I'm willing to allow for another year of belief.

Steichen's time coordinating offense for Anthony Richardson Sr. has been far from perfect, but his ability to elevate Gardner Minshew in 2023 gives me faith in his ability to scheme a respectable offense around Daniel Jones if he starts in 2025 -- lots of RPOs in spread formations to create easy reads.

Anarumo, on the other hand, is a bit more uncertain. His defense fell apart in Cincinnati in large part because of young players who weren't ready to be out on the field. Was that the product of bad drafting from the front office? Or did Anarumo need to do more to develop the youth by simplifying his complex, communication-heavy defense ???

We'll learn a lot in Indianapolis, where solid veterans populate all three levels of the defense. If Anarumo can get a quick jump out of this group -- and I believe he's that caliber of coach -- then this staff belongs up here, just above average.

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[Colts And Orioles]

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The #1 overall team (the Philadelphia Eagles) had an overall score of 92.6.

The #32 overall team (the New Orleans Saints) had an overall score of 63.0.

The #27 overall team (the Indianapolis Colts) had an overall score of 70.6.



2025 NFL Future Power Rankings: Projections for All 32 Teams

(By Multiple ESPN Staff)

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45920966/2025-nfl-future-power-rankings-projections-32-teams-roster-coaching-quarterback




27) Indianapolis Colts ))) [Overall Score: 70.6]


Reason for hope: ) Optimism abounds already in Indianapolis, where Anthony Richardson Sr. is stacking solid days during training camp. If he can stay healthy and emerge with the rest of the young corps of targets coalescing around him, the Colts will fly up these rankings -- especially if their two new starters on the offensive line, Tanor Bortolini and Matt Goncalves, hit. Can they get a better season out of edge rusher Laiatu Latu in Year 2 as well? --- Ben Solak

Reason for concern: ) Can Anthony Richardson overcome questions surrounding his ability to play at a consistently high level from an execution standpoint? When you invest the No. 4 pick in the quarterback position as an organization, you have to get better ROI (Return On Investestment) than what the Colts have received from Richardson so far. --- Louis Riddick

Nugget to know: ) There are a number of models for completion percentage over expected that are adjusted based on the depth of passes. But based on my model, Richardson had a minus-10.4% CPOE last season. That's the worst figure for any quarterback with at least 200 pass attempts since Blaine Gabbert posted a minus-10.5% in 2011. --- Aaron Schatz

Bold prediction: ) 2nd-year Colts quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, selected early in the 2026 draft after a season that made it clear neither Richardson nor Daniel Jones was Indianapolis' future, will finish in the top 10 in QBR, giving the Colts hope for a bright future. --- Seth Walder

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[Colts And Orioles]

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NFL Power Rankings 2025: Who Is Under the Most Pressure ???

(By NFL Nation Reporters)

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45985977/nfl-preseason-power-rankings-offseason-poll-2025-hot-seat-pressure




26) Indianapolis Colts ))) [Post-Draft Ranking] ) 24


Who's under the most pressure: ) General manager Chris Ballard


He is entering his 9th season and has just two playoff appearances and one postseason victory. The Colts have never won the AFC South under his guidance. Much of Ballard's tenure was upended by the sudden retirement of franchise quarterback Andrew Luck in 2019, but the botched QB moves after Luck's departure have hurt the franchise. Is it playoffs or bust for Ballard ??? --- (Stephen Holder)

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