The Indianapolis Colts may not technically be eliminated from the playoffs, but it would take a lot of good fortune for them to sneak in.
Expecting good fortune for this team, however, has proven to be a fool’s errand. Not only would the Colts need to win out, but they would also need the Chargers to lose at least two of their next three games. Considering they play the Broncos, Patriots and then the Raiders, that doesn’t seem likely, unless the Chargers pull a classic Chargers move and faceplant completely. There are other possible scenarios, but that is the most direct.
Like I said, not likely.
If the Colts do miss the playoffs as expected, would that be enough for them to finally cut bait with general manager Chris Ballard? For any other organization the answer would be yes, but I’m hesitant to say that will happen here given the long leash Jim Irsay has provided Ballard. There is also the question of what to do with Shane Steichen? Would they really consider keeping him around, and having another arranged marriage between lame duck head coach and new GM?
Let’s say the Colts decide to rip the band aid off and completely blow this thing up. What players would the new general manager and coach want to get rid of? Which ones would be considered “untouchable”?
On X, that very question was already being tossed around.
Personally, it’s hard to see the Colts parting ways with players like DeForest Buckner, Jonathan Taylor, Quenton Nelson and others. Sure, some team could come along and make an offer they can’t refuse but barring that, I think they’ll be back.
For Anthony Richardson, things are a little more complicated. If there is a new coach and general manager, will they want to stick with Richardson? Will that be a mandate to getting the job? And if it isn’t, what other options at quarterback would there be? Again, it’s not impossible that they give up on him, but it seems the logical move would be to keep him around for at least one more season.
During the Tuesday edition of The Ride With JMV, John spoke to Nate Atkins of the IndyStar, as well as Greg Rakestraw of the ISC Sports Network, about the Colts and if they will decide to blow the whole thing up or attempt to run it back. Listen to those conversations down below, and tune into The Ride With JMV weekdays from 3-6pm on 93.5/107.5 The Fan!
