Indianapolis Professional Football Team relieve general manager Chris Ballard; coach Shane Steichen emphasizes preparation
INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Professional Football Team relieved general manager Chris Ballard on Monday after a 26-20 loss to the Tennessee Titans left the team at 2-4. Head coach Shane Steichen met with the media Monday afternoon and said his immediate focus is preparing the team for its Week 7 game against the Minnesota Vikings. The report was provided by JJ Stankevitz of Colts.com on Oct. 19, 2026.
Steichen opened his weekly news conference by expressing respect for Ballard, saying he had “a ton of respect” and that Ballard “worked tirelessly” for the organization and the city. He called the move part of the difficult nature of the business and said he did not believe the responsibility rested solely with Ballard. Steichen said coaches, scouts and other staff must share accountability as the team looks ahead.
A statement from owner and CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon emphasized that the team’s goals for the season remain unchanged, a point Steichen reiterated to players and staff. Steichen said the team must put a winning product on the field and improve each week to meet expectations. He stressed attention to detail and a renewed sense of urgency in meetings and practices.
Steichen addressed the locker room after the team squandered a 13-point halftime lead against the previously winless Titans at Lucas Oil Stadium and acknowledged the team had “dug ourselves in a hole” at 2-4. He told players they must dig out together and control the controllables while putting in the necessary work. Steichen recalled that in his first year the team rallied from a 3-5 start and was one play from winning the division, and he said the current group must translate words into results on the field for the fans.
NFL Sports Blog Take
With the front office change occurring midweek, continuity on the coaching staff becomes an immediate stabilizing factor for the Indianapolis Professional Football Team. The team’s 2-4 record, a blown 13-point halftime lead and the quick turnaround to face the undefeated Minnesota Vikings increase the need for disciplined execution. Steichen and his staff must correct situational breakdowns, sharpen practice-to-game details and maintain a clear message as the team seeks to reverse its early-season trajectory.