As the NFL regular season concluded on January 1, 2026, the Indianapolis Colts now find themselves at a critical juncture regarding their general manager and head coaching positions. With a disappointing finish to the season, NFL insiders Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport have offered insights into the uncertainty surrounding the future of the franchise.
Despite a strong start, the Colts collapsed in the second half of the season, losing six consecutive games and ultimately failing to make the playoffs. Injuries impacted performance across both offense and defense, but there’s a growing pressure on GM Chris Ballard as he wraps up his ninth season with limited success. Under his leadership, the Colts have yet to secure a division title, achieving just two playoff appearances and one playoff victory while missing the postseason for the fifth straight year.
The Colts’ offseason strategy took a more aggressive turn in 2025, but the lack of tangible results raises questions about Ballard’s future in his role. His working relationship with head coach Shane Steichen is also under scrutiny. If Ballard remains with the team, Steichen could keep his position; however, a new general manager may seek to hire a coach who aligns better with their vision for the team’s direction.
The Colts’ owner, Jim Irsay-Gordon, has remained tight-lipped about potential changes, offering no clear indication of how the organization will proceed. While there are currently no obvious signs of a major overhaul, the uncertainty leaves the Colts facing another offseason filled with challenging decisions.
Insights from Pelissero and Rapoport suggest that ownership dynamics often lead to shifts in power. However, Irsay-Gordon’s in-depth understanding of the team’s football operations may lead her to evaluate the reasons behind this season’s disappointing outcome critically. As the Colts embark on this offseason, they are confronted with numerous questions regarding their leadership and overall strategy, making this a pivotal moment for the franchise’s future.