Indianapolis Colts Fire GM Chris Ballard After Loss to Titans
Owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon dismisses Ballard following team's 2-4 start and failure to meet championship standards.
The Indianapolis Colts have fired General Manager Chris Ballard, one day after the team's loss to the Tennessee Titans. Owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon cited the need for a change in leadership to meet the organization's championship aspirations.
"Making this change during the season was a deliberate decision. Waiting would only delay the important work that needs to begin now," Irsay-Gordon said in a statement. "We will conduct a thorough search for our next general manager and take the time necessary to identify the right leader for the future of this organization."
She added, "I also want to be clear: this decision does not change our goals for the season. We have a lot of football in front of us, and I expect us to compete, improve, and win football games."
Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen were reportedly on thin ice entering the season after the Colts experienced a significant losing streak last year, falling out of playoff contention. The team's defeat by the Titans brought their season record to 2-4.
Ballard had been the Colts' GM for 10 seasons, compiling a record of 72-82-1 with one playoff win in 2018. The franchise has not reached the postseason in the last five years. The team faces an uphill challenge to make the playoffs this season.
