The Colts hir Chris Ballard as GM

[Indiana V2]

Can we bring the GM search talk over here?

[Indiana V2]

Adam Schefter tweeting this makes me hopeful. If Ballard is chosen you have to think Pagano is gone.

https://mobile.twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/825539668829683712

And Ian Rapaport hearing similar things.

https://mobile.twitter.com/RapSheet/status/825540503949156352

Mike Florio Twitter.

https://mobile.twitter.com/ProFootballTalk/status/825653993531723777

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2017/01/29/chris-ballard-gets-second-interview-for-colts-g-m-job/

[Dewey 5]

Give me Ballard & Toub.

[njcoltfan]

Give me Ballard & Toub.

Make it happen TODAY !!!!

[Hoopsdoc]

Give me Ballard & Toub.

Yes, please.

Actually, make that YES DAMNIT!!

[VeveJones007]

Give me Ballard & Toub.

Yep. Just getting Ballard on board is most important though. If they think it's best to wait one more year to get better assistants, I can stomach that. Build this thing right.

[Indiana V2]

Yep. Just getting Ballard on board is most important though. If they think it's best to wait one more year to get better assistants, I can stomach that. Build this thing right.

If they go with Ballard, then he has to get rid if Pagano right away, otherwise we are back to square one. Grigson was definitely a problem with the lack of talent this roster has, but Pagano is also a problem with the slow starts, lack of game preparation, and dumb in-game decisions.

[OneVoice]

Stephen Holder ‏@HolderStephen 4h4 hours ago
"Was told by solid NFL source this morning that the rumored Chris Ballard-Dave Toub package is just that - rumor. Believes Pagano is staying."

Stephen Holder ‏@HolderStephen 4h4 hours ago
"This source is not saying Ballard isn't possibly the guy. Just saying Toub isn't believed to be coming with him."

Stephen Holder ‏@HolderStephen 1h1 hour ago
Stephen Holder Retweeted Steve Orchard
"I continue to work under assumption Pagano coming back. Much more evidence to support that than contrary (i.e. hiring WRs coach + my source)"

[Indiana V2]

Jason LaConfora Twitter

https://mobile.twitter.com/JasonLaCanfora/status/825499974024716293

[Indiana V2]

Stephen Holder ‏@HolderStephen 4h4 hours ago
"Was told by solid NFL source this morning that the rumored Chris Ballard-Dave Toub package is just that - rumor. Believes Pagano is staying."

Stephen Holder ‏@HolderStephen 4h4 hours ago
"This source is not saying Ballard isn't possibly the guy. Just saying Toub isn't believed to be coming with him."

Stephen Holder ‏@HolderStephen 1h1 hour ago
Stephen Holder Retweeted Steve Orchard
"I continue to work under assumption Pagano coming back. Much more evidence to support that than contrary (i.e. hiring WRs coach + my source)"

That would be dumb, dumb, and dumb.

[Dewey 5]

Stephen Holder ‏@HolderStephen 4h4 hours ago
"Was told by solid NFL source this morning that the rumored Chris Ballard-Dave Toub package is just that - rumor. Believes Pagano is staying."

Stephen Holder ‏@HolderStephen 4h4 hours ago
"This source is not saying Ballard isn't possibly the guy. Just saying Toub isn't believed to be coming with him."

Stephen Holder ‏@HolderStephen 1h1 hour ago
Stephen Holder Retweeted Steve Orchard
"I continue to work under assumption Pagano coming back. Much more evidence to support that than contrary (i.e. hiring WRs coach + my source)"

If we lose out on Ballard because of the clapper Irsay needs his head examined.

[Indiana V2]

If we lose out on Ballard because of the clapper Irsay needs his head examined.

And a kick to the groin.

[VeveJones007]

If they go with Ballard, then he has to get rid if Pagano right away, otherwise we are back to square one. Grigson was definitely a problem with the lack of talent this roster has, but Pagano is also a problem with the slow starts, lack of game preparation, and dumb in-game decisions.

Patience. I, too, would like a complete housecleaning; however, I also recognize that this is getting late. If Ballard thinks they are better off waiting until 2018 for a coaching change so they can get better assistants, then I'm okay with that.

[edgeman]

Just came across my phone...

[Indiana V2]

Per Colts app, Chris Ballard is the new GM.

[Voosh]

Yeah, I was getting ready to post this. Now get rid of Pagano.
http://www.colts.com/news/article-1/Colts-Hire-Chris-Ballard-As-General-Manager/672a1331-154c-4c9b-92ac-2c2466fda5db

[smitty46953]

Per Colts app, Chris Ballard is the new GM.

Yep, just heard same thing :cool:

[smitty46953]

We have hired Chris Ballard as the Colts General Manager:
http://indcolts.co/9hroUc

[Forrest Blue]

Good stuff.

[Puck]

Apparently Chuck is staying. Strike one for bad decision making right off the bat

[Indiana V2]

Where'd sees Chuck is staying? Fire Ballard!

[Maniac]

Apparently Chuck is staying. Strike one for bad decision making right off the bat

If he's staying, it's likely only for one year to appease Irsay, then he will bring in Toub. I agree though, it's a new era and it should begin with a new coach, the one that this GM really wants.

[Maniac]

This is from rotoworld:

http://www.rotoworld.com/player/nfl/11231/chris-ballard



Colts hired Chiefs director of football operations Chris Ballard as GM.
It became abundantly clear Ballard would leave Kansas City for Indianapolis late this week. Ballard is expected to retain Chuck Pagano as head coach, although Pagano will be in a make-or-break year with Ballard reportedly targeting Chiefs special teams coach Dave Toub as soon as 2018. A longtime NFL scout, Ballard is highly regarded throughout league circles and appears to be a strong hire by owner Jim Irsay at surface level. Ballard will need to get to work on supplementing the Colts' talent base, which has sputtered for years beyond Andrew Luck and T.Y. Hilton.

If he's potentially a lame duck coach, just fire him and be done with it.

[Indiana V2]

This is from rotoworld:

http://www.rotoworld.com/player/nfl/11231/chris-ballard



If he's potentially a lame duck coach, just fire him and be done with it.

Exactly, otherwise you are wasting another year hoping Pagano fails just to be able to bring in your own coach.

[Spike]

Apparently Chuck is staying. Strike one for bad decision making right off the bat

Damn, just damn if that is true.

[edgeman]

Pags has got to go. There's no sense in having a lame duck at HC.

[omahacolt]

well his first order of business is terrible

[dwilli57]

Pags has got to go. There's no sense in having a lame duck at HC.

Maybe if he KNOWS he's a lame duck he won't last til August...we can hope.

[Indiana V2]

Very disappointing start for the new GM.

[smitty46953]

Hope Irsay decides to chuck Chuck !!! :cool:

[YDFL Commish]

I'm in agreement that Pags should be fired. But I will give him the benefit of doubt, that just possibly he was coaching looking over his shoulder and was not in a good situation to show what he can do.

Let's let Ballard decide this, either soon, or after this coming season.

[Brylok]

I'm excited to see what Ballard will do, but keeping Pagano makes no sense. I'd much rather Jim bring in Toub immediately. I didn't trust Chuck with a 4 year contract and I sure as hell don't trust him as a lame duck.

[Spike]

I'm in agreement that Pags should be fired. But I will give him the benefit of doubt, that just possibly he was coaching looking over his shoulder and was not in a good situation to show what he can do.

Let's let Ballard decide this, either soon, or after this coming season.

Pags looking over his shoulder had nothing to do with his lame game preparation, lack of time management skills, or some of his idiotic play calls. I would have fired his ass after that embarrassing punt formation against the Pats. No NFL coach should be allowed to be that damn stupid and still keep his job.

[njcoltfan]

well his first order of business is terrible

If Pagano is staying, that's on Irsay

[Spike]

If Pagano is staying, that's on Irsay

Yep, definitely on Irsay. Need to put a real damn short leash on Pags though, don't need him single handedly costing the Colts victories.

[FatDT]

A big part of my excitement with Ballard was getting rid of Pagano. You can't just waste a year with this bum. Just do the obvious right thing and fire Pagano. He's not the answer, he has no future here.

[Brylok]

Pags looking over his shoulder had nothing to do with his lame game preparation, lack of time management skills, or some of his idiotic play calls. I would have fired his ass after that embarrassing punt formation against the Pats. No NFL coach should be allowed to be that damn stupid and still keep his job.
In hindsight, that play was the exact moment that the downward slide started. I knew it was perhaps the worst play in NFL history as I watched that game, but it's kind of amazing seeing all that's happened since that exact moment. Deep down, I bet that's when the players lost the faith.

[Racehorse]

I guess we all need to change our signatures to "Fire Ballard".

[OneVoice]

While I dont understand-agree with keeping Pagano / I will agree that Grigson was biggest problem. Colts are better already.

Hope TJGreen, Clark, Ridgeway make big yr 2 jumps and Dorsett gets it in yr 3 (Wayne was a late bloomer too), get Melvin Ingram via FA, get 2-3 difference-makers on D via draft (MLB), maybe OL, keep Walden and Doyle, maybe sign CB ...Colts can win AFCS next season.

With Luck at QB, we are not that far off

[Indiana V2]

I hope that this keeping Pagano is all speculation, and that Ballard has other plans in mind.

[Spike]

I guess we all need to change our signatures to "Fire Ballard".

Yep, that celebration was short lived.

[Luck4Reich]

Excited about Ballard... hope Chuck is shown the door

[Spike]

While I dont understand-agree with keeping Pagano / I will agree that Grigson was biggest problem. Colts are better already.

Hope TJGreen, Clark, Ridgeway make big yr 2 jumps and Dorsett gets it in yr 3 (Wayne was a late bloomer too), get Melvin Ingram via FA, get 2-3 difference-makers on D via draft (MLB), maybe OL, keep Walden and Doyle, maybe sign CB ...Colts can win AFCS next season.

With Luck at QB, we are not that far off

Yes, they are better, but they could be even better by canning Pags. Anyone who watched Colt games the past 2 years knows that Pags is not a good NFL coach, he sucks. Both Griggs and Pags needed to be shown the door at the same time. I've come to have great distain for Pags who continually throws everyone under the bus to save his own ass.

[Indiana V2]

I just can't stomach that we will likely suffer through another miserable season with Pagano on the sidelines.

[Luck4Reich]

Even better news if Pagano is gone soon... piss poor coach

[MDcolt]

Why are they keeping the clapper around? the in-game management buffooneries was all on him. I mean, grigson was a turd banger, but pagano is a shit head coach. Put us in the AFC east, North, or West and we would have won five games last year. an 8-8 record with luck should save not his ass. "ROLL UP THE SLEEVES" bullshit. I am through with hearing that. Working hard without results = out of a job.

[Spike]

Why are they keeping the clapper around? the in-game management buffooneries was all on him. I mean, grigson was a turd banger, but pagano is a shit head coach. Put us in the AFC east, North, or West and we would have won five games last year. an 8-8 record with luck should save not his ass. "ROLL UP THE SLEEVES" bullshit. I am through with hearing that. Working hard without results = out of a job.

Yep, should have fired Pags after the Jags blew us out of the building a couple years ago, or when he pulled that stupid punt play against the Pats or even when we split with the horrible Jags this past season. Not sure what Irsay sees in Pagano at all. Hopefully Ballard can show Irsay the error of his ways.

[MDcolt]

I would sit him down in front of a tv and play those egregious plays for him. once the tape stopped, I'd say, "no questions. Mine have already been answered, you're fired".

[GoBigBlue88]

From everything I've heard around league last few years, seems like a slam-dunk hire. Honestly, KC is a good QB away from being a top 3 team in the league. They've done incredibly well to stock both defense (and specifically, defensive playmakers) and offense (specifically weapons at skill positions), and always have a dynamic return game. Ballard seems to have a good eye for playmakers in general, which the Colts obviously lack.

Definitely would be curious to learn more about the best returner prospects in this year's draft. Have to think they'll be on Ballard's radar big time.

Don't get sticking with Pagano. Think you're delaying the inevitable there. Don't see the sense in wasting another year with someone who isn't the long-term solution.

[Thorgrim]

I just can't believe Ballard would be ok with keeping Pags. I bet a change is made this week.

[Thorgrim]

Yep, that celebration was short lived.

Nah, no way someone of Ballard's intelligence would agree to be saddled with that imbecile. An change is coming shortly.

[Indiana V2]

Nah, no way someone of Ballard's intelligence would agree to be saddled with that imbecile. An change is coming shortly.

We can only hope. This is Ballard's first true test as GM.

[Hoopsdoc]

I hope that this keeping Pagano is all speculation, and that Ballard has other plans in mind.

No doubt. Obviously, Irsay insisted on keeping Pags. The question is, WHY? WTF is he smoking?

[daedge]

We can only hope. This is Ballard's first true test as GM.

I've got a bad feeling we're stuck with Pagano for one more miserable year.

[FatDT]

Why would someone of Ballard's supposed caliber agree to it?

[Oldcolt]

If we keep Pagano why? Clock management (for the life of me, I don't get why this is so difficult) and the crappy starts to games drive me crazy. Maybe Pagano isn't responsible for that, but if not him then who? On the other hand, it is difficult to evaluate a coach who has to coach such lousy players as Grigson gave him. T Rich, B Werner were not crappy players because of coaching. I have to think that the play of the offensive line the last quarter of the year had something to do with this. Irsay loves continuity and may not want to bring on a new system for these young players to learn. I can't put a lot of blame for the defense on Pagano. He had no players worth a damn (I know, there are a few). At least Grigson is gone. If Ballard can get us some ballers then maybe we can evaluate Pagano more fairly. It gives me some hope that Belichick was 41-55 his first six years and won one playoff game. At least I have some hope, something I had zero of 2 weeks ago.

[rcubed]

from everything I have read, this should be a good hire.

now that coaching thing...

[Hoopsdoc]

Why would someone of Ballard's supposed caliber agree to it?

Maybe he figured it was worth it to get a job with a franchise qb already in place. That's by far the hardest part to find. He figures, I can ride Pags one more year and if he fails, it won't be held against me. Then I can get rid of him and get my own guy.

[Hoopsdoc]

Sucks for us as fans but I can see why Ballard would do it.

[rcubed]

I wonder if they think its too late to put together the staff they would want.

I think that irsay feels he owes it to pagano for some reason which is stupid.

[FatDT]

Fire Pagano, hire Toub, keep the rest of the staff on offense, get a new DC. Continuity on offense, but a change in culture and on defense. Problem solved. Is anyone on the offensive side really going to leave in protest because Pagano is fired?

[Coltsalr]

This is just so weird.

Did Irsay insist on Pagano and Ballard just decided that the job with the Colt sis so great that he'll live with such a ridiculous demand? I mean, this guy turned down an interview with the 49ers, so he seems like he was picky about his job.

Did Ballard just decide that Pagano is a worthy candidate for hire? I guess if there's one thing Pagano does do well, it's interview for his own job. He apparently sold Irsay quite well in 2012, he got him to extend him after the 2015 season and he apparently duped Ballard as well? The Chiefs whooped our asses 30-14 at home this year, it's not like Ballard would have come away from them game impressed by what he saw from the opposing sideline.

Is this just them making nice before he's evaluated/possibly fired? I mean, okay fine, but they could have toned the rhetoric a bit. Jim Caldwell thought he was staying in 2012, but if there's one thing that Irsay/Grigson did right, they weren't talking about him publicly being back. If Pagano is canned, this will be an abrupt about-face and the Colts will likely face come PR backlash for it (which I would argue would be certainly worth it).

Like I said, this is just...weird...

[njcoltfan]

I wonder if they think its too late to put together the staff they would want.

I think that irsay feels he owes it to pagano for some reason which is stupid.

It really can't be that he feels he owes Pagano anything, he'll have to pay him for the next three years!! Could it be that he thinks Pagano is a good coach?? That's a scary thought!!

[rcubed]

It really can't be that he feels he owes Pagano anything, he'll have to pay him for the next three years!! Could it be that he thinks Pagano is a good coach?? That's a scary thought!!

who knows what happened in their therapy sessions.

[rcubed]

This is just so weird.

Did Irsay insist on Pagano and Ballard just decided that the job with the Colt sis so great that he'll live with such a ridiculous demand? I mean, this guy turned down an interview with the 49ers, so he seems like he was picky about his job.

I read he wants to stay in a smaller market in the midwest. Besides, who would really want to go to the dumpster fire that is the 49ers? (besides lynch)

If Pagano is canned, this will be an abrupt about-face and the Colts will likely face come PR backlash for it (which I would argue would be certainly worth it).

.

Irsay can still say that at the time, pagano was the coach, thus his statement. however, in talking with the new GM they felt it was best to make a change now blah blah blah... the question is, will they do it?!

[VeveJones007]

I wonder if they think its too late to put together the staff they would want.

I think that irsay feels he owes it to pagano for some reason which is stupid.

That first part is my theory. And honestly, this team isn't winning the Super Bowl next year even if they had Bill Walsh on the sideline. This offseason is about bringing in talent to get back to the postseason. 2018 is the first realistic year for a new title window.

Do I wish a change were made? Yes. Do I think it'll make much of a difference on the 2017 result? Not really.

[FatDT]

That first part is my theory. And honestly, this team isn't winning the Super Bowl next year even if they had Bill Walsh on the sideline. This offseason is about bringing in talent to get back to the postseason. 2018 is the first realistic year for a new title window.

Do I wish a change were made? Yes. Do I think it'll make much of a difference on the 2017 result? Not really.

Why not plow through some of the growing pains of a new coaching staff this year then?

[njcoltfan]

Why not plow through some of the growing pains of a new coaching staff this year then?

Absolutely on point, why waste TWO more years!!

[Dewey 5]

from everything I have read, this should be a good hire.

now that coaching thing...


Same here but anyone that would think that Pagano is a capable NFL coach leads me to question if he knows what he is even looking at.

The first move Ballard should make is dumping the clapper. It's not like Pagano is Tom Landry & Jerry Jones waited abut 10 seconds before he replaced him.

[Racehorse]

who knows what happened in their therapy sessions.
Stroking?

[Coltsalr]

Why not plow through some of the growing pains of a new coaching staff this year then?

Also, what if this team gets to 10 wins (not unrealistic at all with a non-idiot providing another idiot with talent) and we suddenly have this unfounded renewed confidence in Pagano?

I'm not convinced that this would be a lameduck year in which Ballard could just fire Pagano afterwards. We very possibly could go back to being 11-5 but seriously flawed and unfit to make it to the Super Bowl (2012-2014), and Pagano would survive based off of that.

[FatDT]

Also, what if this team gets to 10 wins (not unrealistic at all with a non-idiot providing another idiot with talent) and we suddenly have this unfounded renewed confidence in Pagano?

I'm not convinced that this would be a lameduck year in which Ballard could just fire Pagano afterwards. We very possibly could go back to being 11-5 but seriously flawed and unfit to make it to the Super Bowl (2012-2014), and Pagano would survive based off of that.

Exactly. The talent level was high enough that it masked Pagano's coaching deficiencies some. The talent level going down revealed the truth, just as it was revealed how overmatched he is whenever we got into one of those blowouts like against the Rams a few years ago, or when we played the Pats in the playoffs.

[Indiana V2]

Also, what if this team gets to 10 wins (not unrealistic at all with a non-idiot providing another idiot with talent) and we suddenly have this unfounded renewed confidence in Pagano?

I'm not convinced that this would be a lameduck year in which Ballard could just fire Pagano afterwards. We very possibly could go back to being 11-5 but seriously flawed and unfit to make it to the Super Bowl (2012-2014), and Pagano would survive based off of that.

I think that is what Irsay is banking on.

[Puck]

They should hire Toub and make him Associate HC so he can help with decision making and move him into the permanent position as soon as Pags calls another dumb play

[smitty46953]

They should hire Toub and make him Associate HC so he can help with decision making and move him into the permanent position as soon as Pags calls another dumb play

That would be a great idea ... :cool:

[FatDT]

They should hire Toub and make him Associate HC so he can help with decision making and move him into the permanent position as soon as Pags calls another dumb play

That's creating another toxic situation. Could you effectively do your job with a gun to your head? Having the obvious new HC in the building isn't fair to Pagano, however much he sucks. Just fire the guy and be done with it. Stop dicking around, Irsay!

[Puck]

That's creating another toxic situation. Could you effectively do your job with a gun to your head? Having the obvious new HC in the building isn't fair to Pagano, however much he sucks. Just fire the guy and be done with it. Stop dicking around, Irsay!


Nope So maybe Pags will quite... not working to get rid of him any other way

[Brylok]

Nope So maybe Pags will quite... not working to get rid of him any other way

Why would he quit when he's getting paid? I wonder what his contract stipulations are regarding payment if he's fired or if he just up and quit. Isn't he under contract for 3 more years anyway?

[Puck]

Why would he quit when he's getting paid? I wonder what his contract stipulations are regarding payment if he's fired or if he just up and quit. Isn't he under contract for 3 more years anyway?

True

[Coltsalr]

Adam Schefter ‏@AdamSchefter 31m31 minutes ago
A presser today, but Colts GM Chris Ballard intends to keep HC Chuck Pagano for 2017, then re-evaluate for 2018, per league sources.

I mean, maybe since he's new, he doesn't feel like his first order of business should be firing the head coach, regardless of how terrible he may be?

[omahacolt]

They should hire Toub and make him Associate HC so he can help with decision making and move him into the permanent position as soon as Pags calls another dumb play

Better yet

Just fire the claptard

[Dewey 5]

Adam Schefter ‏@AdamSchefter 31m31 minutes ago
A presser today, but Colts GM Chris Ballard intends to keep HC Chuck Pagano for 2017, then re-evaluate for 2018, per league sources.

I mean, maybe since he's new, he doesn't feel like his first order of business should be firing the head coach, regardless of how terrible he may be?

Then we hired the wrong guy. I thought the only chance Pagano had to save his job would be promoting Jimmy Raye. Wrong.

[njcoltfan]

Adam Schefter ‏@AdamSchefter 31m31 minutes ago
A presser today, but Colts GM Chris Ballard intends to keep HC Chuck Pagano for 2017, then re-evaluate for 2018, per league sources.

I mean, maybe since he's new, he doesn't feel like his first order of business should be firing the head coach, regardless of how terrible he may be?

Then we hired the wrong guy. I thought the only chance Pagano had to save his job would be promoting Jimmy Raye. Wrong.

Fire Ballard!!!

[Voosh]

Adam Schefter ‏@AdamSchefter 31m31 minutes ago
A presser today, but Colts GM Chris Ballard intends to keep HC Chuck Pagano for 2017, then re-evaluate for 2018, per league sources.

I don't see what's left to evaluate. It's going on year 6, we pretty much know what we have in Pagano. Irsay must really think Grigson was the main problem.

[Brylok]

I don't see what's left to evaluate. It's going on year 6, we pretty much know what we have in Pagano. Irsay must really think Grigson was the main problem.

Irsay thinking that Grigson was the main problem is the only thing that makes sense. He's wrong of course, but he hasn't figured that out yet.

[FatDT]

Irsay thinking that Grigson was the main problem is the only thing that makes sense. He's wrong of course, but he hasn't figured that out yet.

If he doesn't have enough evidence by now, what will convince him?

[njcoltfan]

I don't see what's left to evaluate. It's going on year 6, we pretty much know what we have in Pagano. Irsay must really think Grigson was the main problem.

Another wasted year of Lucks career!!

[Maniac]

From all the reports, Ballard wanted Pagano gone. That then begs the question "So what did Irsay tell Ballard to make him accept Pagano for at least a year?"

He may have told him something like "Look, I know you want Pagano gone, but I have too much money to pay him this year on his contract even if I fire him, plus paying the new coach. I would prefer a year to see what he can do with you."

Irsay should just take the hit and let Ballard bring in who he wants at HC, but he isn't. I was hoping Polian would advise him to fire Pagano too. This sucks.

[Brylok]

If he doesn't have enough evidence by now, what will convince him?

8-8 or worse next season and 3rd in AFC South. It's obvious to us but who knows what goes on in Jim's head.

[Racehorse]

Adam Schefter ‏@AdamSchefter 31m31 minutes ago
A presser today, but Colts GM Chris Ballard intends to keep HC Chuck Pagano for 2017, then re-evaluate for 2018, per league sources.

I mean, maybe since he's new, he doesn't feel like his first order of business should be firing the head coach, regardless of how terrible he may be?

Bah! Humbug!

[Dewey 5]

From all the reports, Ballard wanted Pagano gone. That then begs the question "So what did Irsay tell Ballard to make him accept Pagano for at least a year?"

He may have told him something like "Look, I know you want Pagano gone, but I have too much money to pay him this year on his contract even if I fire him, plus paying the new coach. I would prefer a year to see what he can do with you."

Irsay should just take the hit and let Ballard bring in who he wants at HC, but he isn't. I was hoping Polian would advise him to fire Pagano too. This sucks.

When Ballard sees the team get off to slow starts every game, non-existent game planes, dumb ass fake punt formations, etc. Ballard will ask Irsay why the fuck did you make me keep this clown? Can I fire him now?!

[rcubed]

Adam Schefter ‏@AdamSchefter 31m31 minutes ago
A presser today, but Colts GM Chris Ballard intends to keep HC Chuck Pagano for 2017, then re-evaluate for 2018, per league sources.

I mean, maybe since he's new, he doesn't feel like his first order of business should be firing the head coach, regardless of how terrible he may be?

I assume irsay said to keep him a year then do what you think is best. dumb on irsays part if so.

[Butter]

8-8 or worse next season and 3rd in AFC South. It's obvious to us but who knows what goes on in Jim's head.

I doubt it, even with Pagano this team can be better than that and should be able to be in competition for 1st. If Ballard brings in a decent infusion of talent there is no reason the Colts to be that bad. Which is kind of troubling since a 11 win season and a AFC south title, even with an embarrassing playoff loss will probably buy Pags at least one more year.

[Brylok]

I doubt it, even with Pagano this team can be better than that and should be able to be in competition for 1st. If Ballard brings in a decent infusion of talent there is no reason the Colts to be that bad. Which is kind of troubling since a 11 win season and a AFC south title, even with an embarrassing playoff loss will probably buy Pags at least one more year.

That's the only thing I'm concerned about now. I don't think they'll be any worse than 8-8 and playing a 3rd place schedule will probably lead to 10-6 or better. Maybe omaha is right calling Pagano a master manipulator/bullshit artist.

[omahacolt]

That's the only thing I'm concerned about now. I don't think they'll be any worse than 8-8 and playing a 3rd place schedule will probably lead to 10-6 or better. Maybe omaha is right calling Pagano a master manipulator/bullshit artist.

it may not be just him. i imagine his agent plays a huge role in the leaks from last year mid season. those leaks to the media weren't coming from grigson or irsay. and they all made grigson look like an asshole and pagano to just have his hands tied.

and then the question about how the team lacked the talent to be above 8-8 and the dick threw the team and grigson under the bus. a good dude, or a dude that didn't have an agenda, would make the comment that everyone just needs to be better and blah blah blah. pagano made a huge statement for as little as he said.

pagano is a piece of shit doing anything to survive. and for what? he is betting on himself to win big when anyone that has seen his results knows he isn't a good coach.

[njcoltfan]

Sad thing about all this shit is that Lucks career is being wasted away. Luck will be fortunate if he gets to one Super Bowl with these asshats running the show!!

[VeveJones007]

Why not plow through some of the growing pains of a new coaching staff this year then?

1) May not be able to get the right coordinators now.
2) It's a bad time to try implementing a new offense when Luck can't throw for 4-5 months.

Look, I would prefer a change now, but I don't think it's a slam dunk error in judgment.

[VeveJones007]

it may not be just him. i imagine his agent plays a huge role in the leaks from last year mid season. those leaks to the media weren't coming from grigson or irsay. and they all made grigson look like an asshole and pagano to just have his hands tied.

and then the question about how the team lacked the talent to be above 8-8 and the dick threw the team and grigson under the bus. a good dude, or a dude that didn't have an agenda, would make the comment that everyone just needs to be better and blah blah blah. pagano made a huge statement for as little as he said.

pagano is a piece of shit doing anything to survive. and for what? he is betting on himself to win big when anyone that has seen his results knows he isn't a good coach.

This. And it's Irsay's fault for not seeing it and forcing Ballard's hand for 2017.

[Brylok]

it may not be just him. i imagine his agent plays a huge role in the leaks from last year mid season. those leaks to the media weren't coming from grigson or irsay. and they all made grigson look like an asshole and pagano to just have his hands tied.

and then the question about how the team lacked the talent to be above 8-8 and the dick threw the team and grigson under the bus. a good dude, or a dude that didn't have an agenda, would make the comment that everyone just needs to be better and blah blah blah. pagano made a huge statement for as little as he said.

pagano is a piece of shit doing anything to survive. and for what? he is betting on himself to win big when anyone that has seen his results knows he isn't a good coach.
I'm not going to call him a piece of shit, but you may very well be right. Other than Irsay, he's been the only constant. Watching the team come out slow again and again, the lack of discipline and boneheaded in-game decisions are Pagano hallmarks. I started buying into your theory when he threw all the assistants under the bus. Dude's like the bad penny that keeps coming up. The good ol' lovable oaf, spouting clichés and manipulating behind the scenes.

[IndyNorm]

Well this sucks. Another year wasting Luck under the incompetence of Clappy McWoodchopper. It really puts you in a bind as a fan too, b/c you want the team to do well but if they do then we're stuck with that worthless dipshit and his band of stooges for at least another year :(

[Dam8610]

Well this sucks. Another year wasting Luck under the incompetence of Clappy McWoodchopper. It really puts you in a bind as a fan too, b/c you want the team to do well but if they do then we're stuck with that worthless dipshit and his band of stooges for at least another year :(

Just curious, what level of team performance would it take for you to change your mind on Pagano even the slightest bit? 12-4? 13-3? Deep playoff run? I'm actually curious as to the level of bias here.

[rcubed]

Just curious, what level of team performance would it take for you to change your mind on Pagano even the slightest bit? 12-4? 13-3? Deep playoff run? I'm actually curious as to the level of bias here.



Lets starts with having a game plan that doesnt involve overcoming large deficits to win a game.

[omahacolt]

Just curious, what level of team performance would it take for you to change your mind on Pagano even the slightest bit? 12-4? 13-3? Deep playoff run? I'm actually curious as to the level of bias here.

It has very little to do with wins and losses. Not sure why you don't get that

[Racehorse]

Just curious, what level of team performance would it take for you to change your mind on Pagano even the slightest bit? 12-4? 13-3? Deep playoff run? I'm actually curious as to the level of bias here.

Easy: Stop with the slow starts and poor time management. And no more stupid punt plays.

[sherck]

Just curious, what level of team performance would it take for you to change your mind on Pagano even the slightest bit? 12-4? 13-3? Deep playoff run? I'm actually curious as to the level of bias here.

Hmmm...that is an interesting question.

IMO, I would want to see a couple of things in order to have my mind "eased" as to Pagano's ability as a Head Coach in the NFL.

#1 = Winning record and winning the AFC South. This is very achievable with the roster we had in 2016 and I expect that the 2017 roster will be better. If this is not achieved, then the team has not achieved.

#2 = Game starting game plans that are effective. So often, it feels like we have zero clue that the opposing team is going to do what they have been doing all season long! "What? The Titans are going to run the rock with 2 RBs? Who knew?!?" I don't feel like we attack weakness very often; we just "do what we do."

#3 = Effective halftime adjustments. See Point #2 above but, again, we don't seem to attack identified weaknesses very well. "We do what we do."

#4 = Having the team play DISCLIPLINED football. Throwing for 40 yards on a 3rd down and 1. Committing unsportsmanlike conduct penalties on opposing team failed 3rd down plays. Offside penalties. Chronic drops on 3rd down pass plays. Any delay of game penalty. Just about any pass interference penalty. Catching the ball 7 yards downfield on 3rd down and 9. Ever getting caught with too many men on the field. Having to burn a timeout because someone is not on the field for a special teams play. Those are all the result of an undisciplined team.

#5 = Pure Head Coaching decisions. Use of timeouts. Decision to go for it on 4th down. Decision to kick a FG or continue an offensive drive. Decision to play "prevent" defense. Decision to continue an attacking offense or go time eating "ball control." One point conversion or two point conversion? Those used effectively greatly enhance a team's chances of winning a game. Used poorly....


Those are the criteria that I would use when evaluating Pagano in 2017. While point #1 has quite a bit to do with player talent, NONE of the other points depend on that; they depend on a coaches ability to lead their team.

Cheers,

[IndyNorm]

Just curious, what level of team performance would it take for you to change your mind on Pagano even the slightest bit? 12-4? 13-3? Deep playoff run? I'm actually curious as to the level of bias here.

The other 4 posts above pretty much address what Clappy McWoodchopper and his band of dipshits need to do, but to add my .02:

-Install effective game plans and get the team ready to play. This has been something Pags and staff have been incapable of for the past 4 years as ~75% of the time the team starts a game looking like they haven't stepped on a football field for a month and have no idea what to do against the opposition (who most of the time are doing what they've just been doing all year like Sherck points out). It wouldn't surprise me if he actually has the coaches and players literally out chopping wood during the week instead of watching film and practicing.

-Large reduction in bone headed penalties and plays. From stupid penalties, to missed assignments, to trying to return punts from the 1 yard line, this type of crap has absolutely plagues us the past 2 years. This shows clearly a lack of discipline on the team. Need to tighten up that belt big time.

-Improved game management. No more losing games when you take the lead with only 40 seconds remaining or losing a 2 TD lead with only 5 minutes to play to a team with Brock Osweiller as their QB b/c you're playing too soft and/or trying to run the clock out for the entire 4th quarter.

-Improved play calling. Enough with the 7 step drops all of the time and other plays that are getting Luck killed out there, and for god fucking sake figure out what to do when the other team starts blitzing.

-No more god awful fakes and trick plays. The next time this team tries anything anywhere near as stupid as the infamous fake punt then not only should Pags and anyone involved be fired, but they should also be flogged and then tarred and feathered while being sent out of town.

-Quit playing down to the competition. When we play a bad team like the Jags or the Bears we should be either blowing them out or winning comfortable. Not falling behind and either falling short in a come back or barely squeaking out a win.


If he and his staff are able to do the above then the record will take care of itself. Of course if they had done the above the past couple years then the record would have already taken care of itself and we wouldn't be having this conversation.

[sherck]

The other 4 posts above pretty much address what Clappy McWoodchopper and his band of dipshits need to do, but to add my .02:

-Install effective game plans and get the team ready to play. This has been something Pags and staff have been incapable of for the past 4 years as ~75% of the time the team starts a game looking like they haven't stepped on a football field for a month and have no idea what to do against the opposition (who most of the time are doing what they've just been doing all year like Sherck points out). It wouldn't surprise me if he actually has the coaches and players literally out chopping wood during the week instead of watching film and practicing.

-Large reduction in bone headed penalties and plays. From stupid penalties, to missed assignments, to trying to return punts from the 1 yard line, this type of crap has absolutely plagues us the past 2 years. This shows clearly a lack of discipline on the team. Need to tighten up that belt big time.

-Improved game management. No more losing games when you take the lead with only 40 seconds remaining or losing a 2 TD lead with only 5 minutes to play to a team with Brock Osweiller as their QB b/c you're playing too soft and/or trying to run the clock out for the entire 4th quarter.

-Improved play calling. Enough with the 7 step drops all of the time and other plays that are getting Luck killed out there, and for god fucking sake figure out what to do when the other team starts blitzing.

-No more god awful fakes and trick plays. The next time this team tries anything anywhere near as stupid as the infamous fake punt then not only should Pags and anyone involved be fired, but they should also be flogged and then tarred and feathered while being sent out of town.

-Quit playing down to the competition. When we play a bad team like the Jags or the Bears we should be either blowing them out or winning comfortable. Not falling behind and either falling short in a come back or barely squeaking out a win.


If he and his staff are able to do the above then the record will take care of itself. Of course if they had done the above the past couple years then the record would have already taken care of itself and we wouldn't be having this conversation.
I thanked you solely for the phrase "Clappy McWoodchopper." That is an INSTANT classic!

Now, I will go read the rest of your post! ;)

Cheers,

[Indiana V2]

I thanked you solely for the phrase "Clappy McWoodchopper." That is an INSTANT classic!

Now, I will go read the rest of your post! ;)

Cheers,

Yep, Pagano has a new name, Clappy McWoodchopper. Love it

[PeytonsForehead]

I really hope this motherfucker wises up and fires Pagano.

[Coltsalr]

I really hope this motherfucker wises up and fires Pagano.

We can drop f-bombs now?

Fuck yeah!

[jasperhobbs]

I think Ballard is a great choice for GM. Being with KC, he learned how to build a team. I am really looking forward to the draft and free agency. A solid draft and a few free agents could really turn the Colts around.

[sherck]

I think Ballard is a great choice for GM. Being with KC, he learned how to build a team. I am really looking forward to the draft and free agency. A solid draft and a few free agents could really turn the Colts around.
I agree 100%.

Our offense was rounding into form over the 2nd half of the season. Really, all it needed was for the O-Line to gel and it appears that was happening. Hopefully, a new WR coach will bring the younger guys further so that they support T.Y. better and about the only player needed on the offensive side is a young RB to backup Gore.

However, on defense, it is pretty much a disaster. No LBs that I have confidence in except Walden and he might have priced himself out of us re-signing him with his double digit sack year (which will never happen again).

Our D-Line ended up not being the strength that I had hoped it would be although there were times that it played well. Our secondary has Vontae and perhaps Geathers as studs and a few other nice players in Robinson, Butler and Melvin but needs more work.

In my perfect world, however, 4 defensive free agents (D-Line, ILB, OLB, CB) to go along with 3 or 4 defensive rookies (first 3 rounds for sure and then either RB or defense in 4th round) would go a LONG way in upgrading the defensive side of the ball and make us a 10 win team again.

Think of this....

NE scored 51 offensive TDs, 27 FGs, 46 XPM and 1 2-point conversions on offense.

IND scored 45 offensive TDs, 27 FGs, 44 XPM and 2 2-point conversions on offense.

NE. = 435 offensive points scored (27.19 ppg)
IND = 399 offensive points scored (24.94 ppg)

3 points per game less scored on offense per game.....however...

NE. = 250 defensive points allowed (15.63 ppg)
IND = 392 defensive points allowed (24.50 ppg)

9 points more per game allowed on defense.

A one season defensive "Manhattan Project" with the RIGHT guys brought in could create a HUGE turnaround in 2017.

Perhaps, even enough to overcome some of Clappy McWoodChoppers' faults and tendencies to lose us games.

Cheers,

[Racehorse]

I agree 100%.

Our offense was rounding into form over the 2nd half of the season. Really, all it needed was for the O-Line to gel and it appears that was happening. Hopefully, a new WR coach will bring the younger guys further so that they support T.Y. better and about the only player needed on the offensive side is a young RB to backup Gore.

However, on defense, it is pretty much a disaster. No LBs that I have confidence in except Walden and he might have priced himself out of us re-signing him with his double digit sack year (which will never happen again).

Our D-Line ended up not being the strength that I had hoped it would be although there were times that it played well. Our secondary has Vontae and perhaps Geathers as studs and a few other nice players in Robinson, Butler and Melvin but needs more work.

In my perfect world, however, 4 defensive free agents (D-Line, ILB, OLB, CB) to go along with 3 or 4 defensive rookies (first 3 rounds for sure and then either RB or defense in 4th round) would go a LONG way in upgrading the defensive side of the ball and make us a 10 win team again.

Think of this....

NE scored 51 offensive TDs, 27 FGs, 46 XPM and 1 2-point conversions on offense.

IND scored 45 offensive TDs, 27 FGs, 44 XPM and 2 2-point conversions on offense.

NE. = 435 offensive points scored (27.19 ppg)
IND = 399 offensive points scored (24.94 ppg)

3 points per game less scored on offense per game.....however...

NE. = 250 defensive points allowed (15.63 ppg)
IND = 392 defensive points allowed (24.50 ppg)

9 points more per game allowed on defense.

A one season defensive "Manhattan Project" with the RIGHT guys brought in could create a HUGE turnaround in 2017.

Perhaps, even enough to overcome some of Clappy McWoodChoppers' faults and tendencies to lose us games.

Cheers,Perhaps

[YDFL Commish]

Something I found interesting at the 3:50 mark of this video, when Ballard says that he never tries to dictate scheme to his coaches. Is it possible that Grigson's meddling went that deep that he was dictating scheme to Pagano? Because it just seems odd to me that a new GM hire would even bring that up?

http://www.colts.com/videos/videos/Getting-to-Know-Colts-GM-Chris-Ballard/38f2a7e6-4dff-4b08-8db6-e61e666a008d

[omahacolt]

Something I found interesting at the 3:50 mark of this video, when Ballard says that he never tries to dictate scheme to his coaches. Is it possible that Grigson's meddling went that deep that he was dictating scheme to Pagano? Because it just seems odd to me that a new GM hire would even bring that up?

http://www.colts.com/videos/videos/Getting-to-Know-Colts-GM-Chris-Ballard/38f2a7e6-4dff-4b08-8db6-e61e666a008d

I highly doubt it

[indycolts2]

I highly doubt it

Thanks for your as usual deep cutting edge analysis!

[Indiana V2]

Thanks for your as usual deep cutting edge analysis!

omaha can say a lot without saying a lot.

[rcubed]

omaha can say a lot without saying a lot.

stop tossing omaha's salad

[omahacolt]

Thanks for your as usual deep cutting edge analysis!

do i really need to explain how retarded it is to think grigson was dictating scheme to his coaches?

[bigalbert]

do i really need to explain how retarded it is to think grigson was dictating scheme to his coaches?

From the tweets by players of their dislike for grigson, one has to wonder what the hell this guy was all sticking his nose into, so YES it is absolutely possible that it happened

[VeveJones007]

I agree 100%.

Our offense was rounding into form over the 2nd half of the season. Really, all it needed was for the O-Line to gel and it appears that was happening. Hopefully, a new WR coach will bring the younger guys further so that they support T.Y. better and about the only player needed on the offensive side is a young RB to backup Gore.

However, on defense, it is pretty much a disaster. No LBs that I have confidence in except Walden and he might have priced himself out of us re-signing him with his double digit sack year (which will never happen again).

Our D-Line ended up not being the strength that I had hoped it would be although there were times that it played well. Our secondary has Vontae and perhaps Geathers as studs and a few other nice players in Robinson, Butler and Melvin but needs more work.

In my perfect world, however, 4 defensive free agents (D-Line, ILB, OLB, CB) to go along with 3 or 4 defensive rookies (first 3 rounds for sure and then either RB or defense in 4th round) would go a LONG way in upgrading the defensive side of the ball and make us a 10 win team again.

Think of this....

NE scored 51 offensive TDs, 27 FGs, 46 XPM and 1 2-point conversions on offense.

IND scored 45 offensive TDs, 27 FGs, 44 XPM and 2 2-point conversions on offense.

NE. = 435 offensive points scored (27.19 ppg)
IND = 399 offensive points scored (24.94 ppg)

3 points per game less scored on offense per game.....however...

NE. = 250 defensive points allowed (15.63 ppg)
IND = 392 defensive points allowed (24.50 ppg)

9 points more per game allowed on defense.

A one season defensive "Manhattan Project" with the RIGHT guys brought in could create a HUGE turnaround in 2017.

Perhaps, even enough to overcome some of Clappy McWoodChoppers' faults and tendencies to lose us games.

Cheers,

I'm really concerned that they are going to sit on this cap space. Who would they need to save it for?

[omahacolt]

I'm really concerned that they are going to sit on this cap space. Who would they need to save it for?

someone worth the money?

[omahacolt]

From the tweets by players of their dislike for grigson, one has to wonder what the hell this guy was all sticking his nose into, so YES it is absolutely possible that it happened

highly unlikely.

players didn't like him. shocker. they were cut by him. or didn't get the contract they wanted. or weren't brought back. no axe to grind there.

it is absurd to believe he was dictating what offense or defense to run.

[VeveJones007]

someone worth the money?

Poe and Bouye would look pretty darn good in Colts jerseys next year. When you fail so epically in the draft as Grigson did in 2013-2014, it's not like you have guys to extend. They either sign free agents or the cap space will not be used. You can't keep rolling over $40MM until you're ready to (hopefully) extend a few players from Ballard's first draft.

[omahacolt]

Poe and Bouye would look pretty darn good in Colts jerseys next year. When you fail so epically in the draft as Grigson did in 2013-2014, it's not like you have guys to extend. They either sign free agents or the cap space will not be used. You can't keep rolling over $40MM until you're ready to (hopefully) extend a few players from Ballard's first draft.

I agree.

I am sure we will spend a nice chunk in free agency. I just have no problem setting some back instead of paying for a Trent Cole type player.

[Indiana V2]

Didn't know if this has been posted yet, but an article about Ballard.

http://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nfl/colts/2017/02/04/new-gm-chris-ballard-colts-do-things-right-and-do-together

[FatDT]

It seems reasonable to expect Ballard to target one of both of Poe and Berry. Players move with coaches or execs their familiar with all the time.

[Dam8610]

It seems reasonable to expect Ballard to target one of both of Poe and Berry. Players move with coaches or execs their familiar with all the time.

Poe and Berry would both be huge upgrades.

[Horse]

I like everything I've read about Ballard. Should be a major upgrade over Grigson. In addition to all that, he maintains a scraggly beard, which I'm sure sealed the deal with Irsay.

[Racehorse]

I like everything I've read about Ballard. Should be a major upgrade over Grigson. In addition to all that, he maintains a scraggly beard, which I'm sure sealed the deal with Irsay.If it is scraggly, you can't say it is also maintained.

[rcubed]

If it is scraggly, you can't say it is also maintained.

that's deep

[omahacolt]

If it is scraggly, you can't say it is also maintained.

sure you can

how well maintained is the debate

[Hoopsdoc]

Poe and Berry would both be huge upgrades.

Poe yes. Maybe Berry, depending on price.

Build up the lines first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and so on. THEN look at other guys.

I want the Colts to win in the trenches.

[Dam8610]

Poe yes. Maybe Berry, depending on price.

Build up the lines first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and so on. THEN look at other guys.

I want the Colts to win in the trenches.

Berry is an impact defender. He's definitely an upgrade over the adequate or worse options the Colts have at safety.

[Coltsalr]

At this point, I'll take game-changing talent wherever on the defense. There isn't a position that we have that we couldn't stand to improve in a big way.

That's a really, really sad realization, but it's absolutely the case.

[Dam8610]

At this point, I'll take game-changing talent wherever on the defense. There isn't a position that we have that we couldn't stand to improve in a big way.

That's a really, really sad realization, but it's absolutely the case.

Welcome to the 2001 Colts all over again.

[Coltsalr]

Welcome to the 2001 Colts all over again.

Yeesh, that was depressing going back and looking at that roster. That defense had Marcus Washington as it's literal one impact player (and even that's debatable, in much the exact same way that we are now with Vontae Davis).

Prior to 2002, the Colts drafted Freeney (round 1), David Thornton (round 4) and Raheem Brock (round 7). Couple that with getting Mike Peterson back from injury (alas, I don't think any of the guys coming back from injury the Colts can count on to be a real impact guy), and they were at least able to salvage themselves from that utter atrocity that was the season before.

The Colts are going to need something like that, where they have a draft where they're bringing on board at least three future starters and where they're bringing in at least one other guy from free agency (we don't have the luxury of bringing a guy back from injury, because Grigson sucked).

[sherck]

The only guys currently on defense that I see as, potentially, building blocks for the future are:

NT David Parry
DE Henry Anderson
DE Hassan Ridgway
ILB Edwin Jackson
ILB Antonio Morrison
SS Clayton Geathers
CB Vontae Davis (for only another couple of seasons)

Perhaps E.J. Green will turn a corner this season because his physical abilities are excellent but he was a lost lonely lamb in 2016.

While I like a bit of what Melvin and Morris did at CB in 2016, I don't think either of them are a future building block.

No one at OLB which is THE KEY POSITION in a 3-4 defense was they provide the pass rush, control the flats and funnel the runners inside to the rest of the defense. No one.

Cheers,

[rcubed]

The only guys currently on defense that I see as, potentially, building blocks for the future are:

NT David Parry
DE Henry Anderson
DE Hassan Ridgway
ILB Edwin Jackson
ILB Antonio Morrison
SS Clayton Geathers
CB Vontae Davis (for only another couple of seasons)

Perhaps E.J. Green will turn a corner this season because his physical abilities are excellent but he was a lost lonely lamb in 2016.

While I like a bit of what Melvin and Morris did at CB in 2016, I don't think either of them are a future building block.

No one at OLB which is THE KEY POSITION in a 3-4 defense was they provide the pass rush, control the flats and funnel the runners inside to the rest of the defense. No one.

Cheers,

but melvin and morris would make for nice backups, thus should be at least part of the plan.

[Wyatt]

Per Pro Football Rumors

New Colts GM Chris Ballard may want to shake up the scouting core, but league sources tell JLC that he may have to wait a year since the evaluators that are already there have more time to go on their contracts. Still, Ballard badly wants to poach Seahawks executive Ed Dodds. If Indy can land him, he’ll probably get a promotion over his current title. Jets director of college scouting Rex Hogan is also a Ballard target, but JLC hears that he still has a good amount of time left on his contract and might be harder to pry away.

Bears exec Morocco Brown, who has history with Ballard, could be a possible candidate for the Colts and 49ers. JLC notes that Brown had a solid relationship with new SF coach Kyle Shanahan in D.C.

[VeveJones007]

Per Pro Football Rumors

New Colts GM Chris Ballard may want to shake up the scouting core, but league sources tell JLC that he may have to wait a year since the evaluators that are already there have more time to go on their contracts. Still, Ballard badly wants to poach Seahawks executive Ed Dodds. If Indy can land him, he’ll probably get a promotion over his current title. Jets director of college scouting Rex Hogan is also a Ballard target, but JLC hears that he still has a good amount of time left on his contract and might be harder to pry away.

Bears exec Morocco Brown, who has history with Ballard, could be a possible candidate for the Colts and 49ers. JLC notes that Brown had a solid relationship with new SF coach Kyle Shanahan in D.C.

This is what people don't understand when they wanted Ballard to spend heavily in UFA this offseason. Ballard isn't going to have his people in place until next offseason (at the earliest), so going crazy in 2017 would be very risky. Couple that with a lame-duck coaching staff, and you have a lot of low-risk signings with nothing guaranteed on the books for 2018.

BTW, "low-risk" does NOT equal "limited upside." I think we can all agree that there are some players brought in who could play valuable roles on the team this season.

[omahacolt]

This is what people don't understand when they wanted Ballard to spend heavily in UFA this offseason. Ballard isn't going to have his people in place until next offseason (at the earliest), so going crazy in 2017 would be very risky. Couple that with a lame-duck coaching staff, and you have a lot of low-risk signings with nothing guaranteed on the books for 2018.

BTW, "low-risk" does NOT equal "limited upside." I think we can all agree that there are some players brought in who could play valuable roles on the team this season.

no. i would think most people understand ballard is using grigson's guys. that has nothing to do with who we bring in.

are we really going to blame this free agent class and the draft class on grigson as well?

come on now. this is his show.

[VeveJones007]

no. i would think most people understand ballard is using grigson's guys. that has nothing to do with who we bring in.

are we really going to blame this free agent class and the draft class on grigson as well?

come on now. this is his show.

Do you know for a fact that Ballard wants to run a 3-4 going forward? Does he even know, or will he adapt based on the coaching staff he brings in next offseason?

Why would you go crazy in free agency if questions like that are still up in the air? Better to sign decent stop-gap players and keep your powder dry for next offseason when you have your scouts and coaching staff in place.

[Puck]

Do you know for a fact that Ballard wants to run a 3-4 going forward? Does he even know, or will he adapt based on the coaching staff he brings in next offseason?

Why would you go crazy in free agency if questions like that are still up in the air? Better to sign decent stop-gap players and keep your powder dry for next offseason when you have your scouts and coaching staff in place.

I heard an interview somewhere, he is a 3-4 guy. So he is building his team and will be able to select a coach to fit. I actually think Pags may do well this yr.

I also heard Monachino interviiew and he mentioned the communication between the GM and coaches has been stellar. He asks the coaches what they want then they discuss and goes get it.