Shane Steichen and Chris Ballard face pressure during the 2026 NFL season

Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen and general manager Chris Ballard enter the 2026 season under increased scrutiny following a difficult finish to the previous year. ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell identified both figures as being among the NFL personnel with the most significant stakes this year. The team struggled to end the 2025 campaign, losing seven consecutive games after starting 8-2 and missing the playoffs. Injuries to key contributors including Daniel Jones, DeForest Buckner, and Sauce Gardner hampered the team's postseason push. Since 2014, the franchise has secured only one postseason victory. Leadership must now address persistent quarterback challenges and roster performance to reverse recent trends.

• 5:24 PMYahoo Sports — Colts' Steichen, Ballard among NFL figures with most at stake in 2026