The Indianapolis Colts have reportedly made Peyton Manning their top target in the search for a new general manager following the firing of Chris Ballard. According to host Dan Patrick, the Colts' "first call will be/has been Peyton Manning," citing an unnamed source.
Patrick suggested on "The Dan Patrick Show" that the conversation with Manning would not only solicit suggestions for candidates but also explore his potential interest in the general manager position. This role could potentially come with an ownership stake in the franchise, representing a significant move for the next generation of team leadership under Jim Irsay’s daughters, including CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon.
Ballard was dismissed after the Colts’ disappointing 2-4 start to the 2026 season. Irsay-Gordon released a statement acknowledging the timing of the decision was deliberate, emphasizing the need to begin the search for a new leader immediately. "Making this change during the season was a deliberate decision," she stated. "Waiting would only delay the important work that needs to begin now. We will conduct a thorough search for our next general manager and take the time necessary to identify the right leader for the future of this organization."
She also conveyed that the team's objectives for the current season remain unchanged. "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."
Manning, a Hall of Fame quarterback, holds numerous franchise records for the Colts and led the team to a Super Bowl victory in the 2006 season. Since retiring from professional football in 2016, Manning has been active in media, co-hosting the "Monday Night Football" ManningCast with his brother Eli and appearing in various advertising campaigns.
While Jim Irsay, who passed away in May 2025, had shown no inclination to sell any part of the team, it is speculated that his daughters may have a different perspective on potential ownership changes.