Indianapolis Colts fire General Manager Chris Ballard

The Indianapolis Colts have fired longtime General Manager Chris Ballard following a 26-20 home loss to the Tennessee Titans, which dropped the team to a 2-4 record for the 2026 season. Ballard, who had held the position since January 2017, leaves with a regular-season record of 72-82-1 and only two playoff appearances (2018 and 2020).

Colts owner and CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon stated that the leadership change was a deliberate decision intended to accelerate the necessary work for a franchise rebuild and to meet the organization’s standard of competing for championships. Assistant GM Ed Dodds will serve as the interim General Manager for the remainder of the season.

The decision follows a period of instability for the franchise, including a difficult 2025 season and struggles to find consistent quarterback play following the retirement of Andrew Luck. While the front office undergoes this transition, head coach Shane Steichen remains in his position, though his future has been described as being under significant pressure.