Posted on Jan 05

Colts collapse after 8-2 start, finishing season 8-9; Steichen, Ballard to return

Posted Jan 5, 2026

The Indianapolis Colts’ season ended in disappointment, but key figures remain in place as they seek to rebound from a historic collapse.

Why it matters: The Colts finished the 2023 season with an 8-9 record after starting 8-2, making them the first team in NFL history to lose six games after being six games over .500. This unprecedented decline raises questions about team leadership and future strategy.

Chris Ballard, the general manager with a career record of 70-78-1, will return for the 2026 season despite ongoing scrutiny.
Head coach Shane Steichen, who has overseen a 25-26 record since taking the helm, is also set to continue his tenure.

What’s new: After their last game against the Houston Texans, which contributed to their seven-game losing streak, the Colts are focusing on regaining momentum heading into the offseason.

The loss to the Texans not only marked the end of a dismal run but also signifies a critical turning point for the franchise as they aim to build on their early-season success.
Injuries, particularly to quarterback Daniel Jones, played a significant role in the team's decline, complicating the path forward.

Yes, but: While certain individuals remain at the forefront, the team faces challenges that could impact their trajectory.

The Colts have missed the playoffs for five consecutive seasons and have not won the AFC South since 2014.
They do not possess a first-round pick for the next two seasons due to previous trades, restricting their opportunities to revamp the roster significantly.

Between the lines: The Colts exhibited flashes of brilliance earlier in the season, with Jonathan Taylor leading the NFL's top offense through the first ten games.

“You just got to find a way to finish,” said Taylor, emphasizing the need to close out tight games—a skill the team struggled with during its losing streak.
The inability to secure wins in critical moments highlights areas for improvement in both coaching decisions and player execution.

What to watch: The upcoming offseason will be pivotal for the Colts as they look to address both their personnel needs and strategic approach.

With discussions around re-signing key players like Daniel Jones ongoing, how the front office navigates free agency will be crucial in shaping the team’s future.
Additionally, the performance of young talents acquired through trades, such as cornerback Sauce Gardner, will play a vital role in the Colts' rebuilding efforts.

The bottom line: As the Colts head into a crucial offseason, the focus will be on learning from past mistakes while leveraging established strengths to forge a more competitive outlook in the coming years.

Colts collapse after 8-2 start, finishing season 8-9; Steichen, Ballard to return

Alex Parker

Posted Jan 5, 2026

The Indianapolis Colts’ season ended in disappointment, but key figures remain in place as they seek to rebound from a historic collapse.

Chris Ballard, the general manager with a career record of 70-78-1, will return for the 2026 season despite ongoing scrutiny.

Head coach Shane Steichen, who has overseen a 25-26 record since taking the helm, is also set to continue his tenure.

What’s new: After their last game against the Houston Texans, which contributed to their seven-game losing streak, the Colts are focusing on regaining momentum heading into the offseason.

The loss to the Texans not only marked the end of a dismal run but also signifies a critical turning point for the franchise as they aim to build on their early-season success.

Injuries, particularly to quarterback Daniel Jones, played a significant role in the team's decline, complicating the path forward.

Yes, but: While certain individuals remain at the forefront, the team faces challenges that could impact their trajectory.

The Colts have missed the playoffs for five consecutive seasons and have not won the AFC South since 2014.

They do not possess a first-round pick for the next two seasons due to previous trades, restricting their opportunities to revamp the roster significantly.

Between the lines: The Colts exhibited flashes of brilliance earlier in the season, with Jonathan Taylor leading the NFL's top offense through the first ten games.

“You just got to find a way to finish,” said Taylor, emphasizing the need to close out tight games—a skill the team struggled with during its losing streak.

The inability to secure wins in critical moments highlights areas for improvement in both coaching decisions and player execution.

What to watch: The upcoming offseason will be pivotal for the Colts as they look to address both their personnel needs and strategic approach.

With discussions around re-signing key players like Daniel Jones ongoing, how the front office navigates free agency will be crucial in shaping the team’s future.

Additionally, the performance of young talents acquired through trades, such as cornerback Sauce Gardner, will play a vital role in the Colts' rebuilding efforts.