Colts fire general manager Chris Ballard amid disappointing season

The Indianapolis Colts announced the firing of general manager Chris Ballard on October 19, 2026, during his tenth season with the team. Under Ballard, the Colts had a record of 72-82-1, failing to make the playoffs since 2020. Pat McAfee expressed mixed feelings about Ballard's tenure, citing a lack of accountability and blaming the franchise's quarterback carousel since Andrew Luck's retirement in 2019 for its struggles. The decision follows a particularly poor start to this season, including a loss to the previously winless Titans, which appears to have been the final straw for ownership. Ballard's contract situation had been uncertain, as he previously stated he was not focused on an extension. The Colts' future direction remains unclear in the wake of this significant personnel change.

• 2:16 PMYahoo Sports — Pat McAfee comments on Indianapolis Colts firing general manager Chris Ballard