After the Colts fired general manager Chris Ballard following their disappointing 2-4 start to the 2026 season, rumors began swirling around one very popular name associated with the Colts.
On Monday’s edition of “The Dan Patrick Show,” the host said he’s heard the Colts are interested in potentially bringing Peyton Manning into their front office.
“The Colts’ first call will be/has been Peyton Manning,” Patrick revealed, citing a source.
“The call will not only get names and suggestions, but the call will explore whether or not Peyton would be interested in being a general manager for the Colts as the entry point that would include ownership interest in the Colts. This would be the first major hire by Jim Irsay’s [daughters], the next generation. The community would love this. The league would love this.”
Patrick added that Jim Irsay, who died in May 2025, never had any interest in selling any part of the franchise, but that his three daughters, including team CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon, might think differently.
Manning is the Colts’ franchise career leader in most major passing categories and led the team to its most recent Super Bowl win in the 2006 season.
Manning has turned to positions in media following his retirement from football in 2016, hosting the “Monday Night Football” ManningCast alongside brother Eli since 2021 and appearing in scores of advertisements.
Irsay-Gordon released a statement regarding the decision to part ways with Ballard.
“Making this change during the season was a deliberate decision,” she said. “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.”
