Colts Owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon Announces Firing Monday

Originally posted on The Spun | By Andrew Holleran | Last updated Oct 19, 2026 9:43 AM ET

Indianapolis Colts owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon isn’t messing around this year.

The Colts dropped to 2-4 on the season on Sunday. Indianapolis fell to Tennessee, which entered the Week 6 game without any wins. The Colts fell to the Titans, 26-20, on Sunday afternoon.

Irsay-Gordon, who took over the franchise for her late father, Jim Irsay, announced on Monday morning, October 19, that she’s making a firing following the Week 6 loss.

The Indianapolis Colts owner has fired the team’s longtime general manager, Chris Ballard.

Aug 29, 2026; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon walks on the field after the game against the Detroit Lions at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images© Robert Goddin-Imagn Images

Ballard, 57, had served as the GM of the Indianapolis Colts since 2017. He had signed a five-year contract extension back in 2021.

Irsay-Gordon’s statement on his firing

Irsay-Gordon released a statement on the decision.

“I am grateful to Chris for his years of service to the Colts and for everything he poured into this organization. He cared deeply about our team and our community, and we wish Chris and his family all the best,” she announced.

“As I said at the start of the season, the sense of urgency has never been higher. Our standard is to compete for championships, and I believe a change in leadership is necessary to meet that standard.

“Making this change during the season was a deliberate decision. Waiting would only delay the important work that needs to begin now. We will conduct a thorough search for our next general manager and take the time necessary to identify the right leader for the future of this organization.

“I also want to be clear: this decision does not change our goals for the season. We have a lot of football in front of us, and I expect us to compete, improve, and win football games.”

Carlie Irsay-Gordon on firing Colts GM Chris Ballard: “As I said at the start of the season, the sense of urgency has never been higher. … Making this change during the season was a deliberate decision. Waiting would only delay the important work that needs to begin now.” pic.twitter.com/lC89qaNwKP
— Jori Epstein (@JoriEpstein) October 19, 2026