Many general managers believe that the best method to create an NFL team is to draft well, develop in-house talent, and extend that talent rather than frequently entering the free agent pool, which can result in big overpays and dead money charges.
Chris Ballard’s tenure as the Colts’ general manager has been defined by a steadfast adherence to his roster-building philosophy, one that emphasizes patience, player development, and a strong belief in the importance of building through the trenches. This approach, however, is coming under increased scrutiny as the team faces mounting pressure to return to postseason contention.
The 2023 season was a challenging one for the Colts, as they narrowly missed the playoffs despite a solid effort with a backup quarterback for most of the year. With Anthony Richardson, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, showing promise but also dealing with injuries in his rookie season, there were expectations that Ballard would make aggressive moves in free agency to shore up the roster’s weaknesses, particularly on defense.
However, Ballard has remained committed to his principles, opting not to pursue high-profile free agents or make splashy trades. Instead, the Colts will largely rely on the same defensive backfield that struggled last season, with only Samuel Womack, a recent waiver claim, as the new addition. Ballard’s approach is rooted in a belief that young players like Nick Cross and JuJu Brents need time and experience to develop into key contributors.
Ballard’s commitment to his philosophy extends to his emphasis on the trenches. He retained 10 offensive and 10 defensive linemen on the 53-man roster, even though it may be difficult for all of them to see significant playing time. This reflects his long-standing belief in building strong lines as the foundation of a successful team.
Despite the pressure to deliver immediate results, Ballard remains confident in his strategy. He acknowledges that not every move has worked out, but he is unwavering in his belief that patience and development will pay off in the long run. This approach has earned him the continued support of owner Jim Irsay, who still views Ballard as a top-tier GM.
However, with the Colts having failed to win an AFC South title or secure consistent playoff appearances during Ballard’s seven-year tenure, the 2024 season looms large. If the team fails to make the playoffs again, it could test Irsay’s patience and potentially put Ballard’s job security in question, despite the owner’s public backing. The stakes are high, and while Ballard remains committed to his vision, the results on the field will ultimately determine whether his approach will continue to be given time to bear fruit.
