Jim Irsay blasts Carson Wentz, praises Matt Ryan

Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay. Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Jim Irsay blasts Carson Wentz again, says Colts are 'set up for excellence' with Matt Ryan

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 8/19/22

Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay hasn't been bashful regarding his feelings about former quarterback Carson Wentz.

After missing out on the playoffs last year, the Colts decided to move on from Wentz after just one season, opting instead to acquire former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan to lead the team.

Even with Wentz now a Washington Commander, and the 2022 season just weeks away, Irsay couldn't help but bring up his former QB this week.

Irsay: "We went through the season with some inconsistency at quarterback that led to a massive problems. ... We’re set up for excellence. Now we just have to do it. And Matt Ryan has that same feeling in his heart. ...This is the time." https://t.co/13Gmup7EJS
— Ben Standig (@BenStandig) August 17, 2022

Wentz started all 17 games last season for the Colts, leading the team to a 9-8 record, but finishing just short of a playoff berth. After the season, reports emerged that the Colts "grew frustrated" with Wentz even before the 2021 campaign began.

After acquiring Ryan this offseason, Irsay said he was "extremely grateful to the football Gods" while also throwing shade at Wentz.

"It's just, for us, it was just something that we had to move away from as a franchise — it was very obvious," Irsay said.

None of Wentz's former teammates have mentioned his name outwardly, but it's clear they're happy with Ryan leading the huddle.

Backfield mates Jonathan Taylor and Nyheim Hines have had nothing but praise for Ryan. Taylor said, "it's been amazing" having Ryan in Indianapolis, while Hines added, "He's not missing the layups."

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