BREAKING: Colts GM confirms major decision for 2025 season

The Indianapolis Colts had a path to the playoffs towards the end of the 2024 season, but their postseason hopes were shattered by a blowout loss to the struggling New York Giants. Following the defeat, several players and analysts, including Colts star defensive end DeForest Buckner, questioned what went wrong, with Buckner even calling out the organization.

Despite the challenges, Indianapolis decided to retain general manager Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen. In his first address to the media since the season’s end, Ballard largely took responsibility for how the year played out. A key revelation was that Anthony Richardson’s starting quarterback job is not guaranteed for 2025. Ballard confirmed that Richardson will face competition for the role, citing concerns over his inability to stay healthy for a full season. Richardson played just four games in his rookie year and 11 games in 2024, failing to complete a full season in either of his first two years.

Another issue with Anthony Richardson was when he voluntarily took himself out of a game, which ultimately led to him being benched in favor of Joe Flacco, who also struggled. As a result, the Colts are planning to take a different approach to the quarterback position in 2025, including introducing competition for the starting role. Ballard also admitted that the team made a “mistake” by not pursuing outside free agents during the offseason and instead sticking with the 2023 roster. This approach mirrored the Dallas Cowboys’ strategy, which also led to a disappointing season. Despite having the potential to be a playoff team, the Colts’ execution fell short, and losing to the Giants with the playoffs on the line was a major setback.

Ballard addressed the harsh criticism from former Colts legend Pat McAfee, who called out the organization, particularly regarding Richardson’s decision to leave the team. McAfee delved into deeper issues within the Colts, and Ballard acknowledged some of McAfee’s points, agreeing with his sentiment that “you can’t fool players.” With two consecutive seasons of near-playoff appearances but missed opportunities in the final weeks, the Colts face a crucial period of reflection and change. With both Steichen and Ballard returning, there’s hope they can work together to push the team back into playoff contention, which could involve a new quarterback under center—one who might not be Richardson or Flacco.