Why Colts fired Chris Ballard: Seven moves that contributed to GM’s downfall

A change in leadership is underway for the Indianapolis Colts, as the franchise announced the firing of general manager Chris Ballard after 10 years in the role. His results over a decade at the helm were modest at best and more accurately described as frustrating and disappointing, given that he was the longest-tenured general manager in NFL history to have a losing record and one or fewer postseason wins. Time ran out following a string of moves that aged poorly and a run of on-field mediocrity.

Late owner Jim Irsay remained committed to Ballard until his death in May 2025, and Carlie Irsay-Gordon put pressure on Ballard upon her rise to leadership, detailing last offseason that the urgency to deliver results has never been higher. That shift in expectations, paired with untimely, poorly executed moves, was Ballard's downfall.

From his role in coaching hires to trades that did not withstand the test of time, failures dotted Ballard's resume by the end of his tenure. The inability to find a long-term answer at quarterback in the wake of Andrew Luck's retirement in 2019 was a prevalent issue across his lengthy run as general manager, too. Underwhelming draft picks did not help…

Original source: https://www.cbssports.com/