Stampede Blue
An Indianapolis Colts blog
Total reads
3,928
This week
0
Rank
#49 of 464
Published
1,256 posts
Last 12 weeks
Most read posts
Featured on Sportsblogs
Run this blog? Add the badge to your site to show readers you're featured — it links back to this page.
Latest Entries
Colts should be sellers, but which stars should they actually move?
With the Colts sitting 2-5 and a looming trade deadline, the blog argues the team should become a seller, but not a fire‑sale. It highlights DeForest Buckner as the prime candidate to move—despite still being a top interior pass rusher—because his contract expires after 2026 and his trade value could fetch a 2027 fourth‑round pick. The emergence of rookie Adetomiwa Adebawore makes the loss more palatable, offering a younger replacement. The author also notes the need to keep other key veterans while reshaping the roster for a future competitive window.
Colts doomed for fire sale after suffering third straight loss to Vikings
The Indianapolis Colts fall to the Minnesota Vikings 16-10 on Sunday, extending their losing streak to three games and dropping to 2-5. Daniel Jones throws for just 108 yards and six interceptions, while the offense sputters with two missed field goals by Spencer Shrader and a critical holding penalty that stalls a goal-to-go drive before halftime. Jonathan Taylor leads the team with 110 scrimmage yards and a 38-yard TD, but the Colts cannot overcome the Vikings’ league‑high two takeaways per game. Minnesota’s pass rush and Kyler Murray’s late TD seal the win, leaving Indianapolis with a -8 turnover margin – the worst in the NFL – and fueling speculation about a quarterback change.
Indianapolis Colts discussion: Week 7 live chat during the Vikings game
The Indianapolis Colts face the Minnesota Vikings in Week 7 (kickoff 1:00 p.m. EST) amid the fallout from head coach Chris Ballard’s dismissal after a 26‑20 loss to the Titans. The author highlights the Colts' modest offensive edge (311 yards, 24 pts per game) but points out defensive woes (351 yards, 27 pts allowed) and a turnover‑prone offense (11 giveaways vs. 3 takeaways). Conversely, the Vikings boast a stronger defense (260 yards, 13 pts allowed) and better ball security. A prediction favors Minnesota 26‑13, with a possible backup quarterback appearance for Indianapolis. The post also promotes live chat on the SB Nation app.
Where to Watch: Colts travel to the Vikings for Week 7
The Indianapolis Colts (2‑4) head to U.S. Bank Stadium on Nov. 3 at 1 PM EST to face the unbeaten Minnesota Vikings (5‑0) in a crucial Week 7 matchup. CBS will televise the game with Ian Eagle and Ross Tucker, and it streams on NFL+ and YouTubeTV; radio coverage is on 93.5/107.5 The Fan, 97.1 Hank FM, and SiriusXM 813. The Colts rank 14th in scoring (24.0 ppg) but 27th in defense (27.3 ppg), while the Vikings boast the league‑best defense (12.8 ppg) despite averaging just 21.8 points. Key storylines include Jonathan Taylor’s ground game and Daniel Jones’ quest for consistency. Injury updates: Colts lose LB CJ Allen, CB Sauce Gardner and TE Tyler Warren; Vikings RB Jordan Mason is questionable. The Vikings won the last meeting 21‑13, and Indianapolis leads the all‑time series 18‑9‑1.
No Colts player reportedly ‘off-limits’ if rebuild begins before upcoming trade deadline
NFL insider Tom Pelissero says the Indianapolis Colts have no players off‑limits if they decide to become major sellers before the Nov. 10 trade deadline. Guard Quenton Nelson, DT DeForest Buckner and RB Jonathan Taylor are all drawing interest, with owners reportedly giving coach Shane Steichen two weeks to try to turn the ship around. The upcoming schedule—an away game at the 5‑0 Vikings and a clash with AFC South‑leading Jaguars—doesn’t help. Analysts suggest trading veterans Buckner, Grover Stewart and possibly CB Charvarius Ward for mid‑round picks, while Nelson or Taylor would likely require a future first‑rounder, which the Colts lack after the 2025 Sauce Gardner deal.
Colts make roster moves ahead of road matchup vs. Minnesota
The Indianapolis Colts reshuffle their roster ahead of Week 7 at Minnesota, promoting veteran LB Germaine Pratt and CB Kenneth Harris to the practice squad. Pratt, who posted 101 tackles, an interception and a forced fumble in 12 starts last season, returns as insurance after rookie LB CJ Allen is out with an ankle and Bryce Boettcher remains questionable. Simultaneously, the team releases punter Thomas Morstead, keeping Rigoberto Sanchez eligible for the Vikings game. Harris, a 24‑year‑old former Patriots undrafted rookie, has appeared in one game this season.
Long awaited move starts Colts in new direction?
The Stampede Blue analyses the Indianapolis Colts' future after GM Chris Ballard's firing, noting his failure to secure a strong coaching staff as the biggest flaw alongside quarterback turnover and defensive draft misses. With reports of a possible fire sale and a tentative roster, the author doubts the upcoming season will improve, especially as interim coaches Lou and Shane remain. Still, there’s a glimmer of hope that a young defensive line, a better O‑line, and wideout Kenny Burks could spark a turnaround before the season ends.
Indianapolis Colts Injury Report: Week 7 Who’s In and Who’s Out
The Colts drop key players for Week 7 against the Vikings. Cornerback Sauce Gardner (rib injury) is out, likely pushing Cam Taylor‑Britt into the outside spot. Tight end Tyler Warren (groin) also sits, expanding snaps for Mo Alie‑Cox, Drew Ogletree and Will Mallory. Linebacker CJ Allen (ankle) and fellow LB Bryce Boettcher (groin) are listed questionable, with Allen expected to miss the game and a possible call‑up of Germaine Pratt. Punter Rigoberto Sanchez (foot) is doubtful, which could see practice‑squad punter Thomas Moorstead promoted. The report outlines the Colts' depth challenges heading into the Minnesota matchup on Sunday, Oct. 23, 2026.
The Colts Have More Paths to a Bright Future Than You Think
The Indianapolis Colts have dismissed GM Chris Ballard after a humiliating 0‑7 loss to the Tennessee Titans on Oct. 18, 2026, ending a tumultuous six‑year tenure marked by missed playoffs, coaching chaos and owner Jim Irsay’s health concerns. Co‑owner Carlie Irsay‑Gordon signals a fresh start, urging the team—coach Shane Steichen, QB Daniel Jones and the roster—to prove they can still compete this season. While speculation of a massive “firesale” looms, the article argues the Colts could leverage the shake‑up to spark a fight rather than surrender, positioning the upcoming Sunday game as a potential turning point.
Stampede Blue Reacts results (Week 7): Colts fans show signs of optimism after Ballard firing
Colts fans show a cautious uptick in optimism after the firing of GM Chris Ballard, with 47% now saying the team is headed in the right direction. The sentiment follows a 26-20 loss to the winless Titans that dropped Indianapolis from a 13‑0 halftime lead. Owner Carlie Irsay‑Gordon’s quick move to dismiss Ballard signals a willingness to change, but confidence remains fragile. Head coach Shane Steichen, who earned 17% of votes as the likely first coach fired this season, still must rally wins to keep the franchise in the AFC playoff race.
The next two weeks will determine Shane Steichen’s future with the Colts
The Colts have just fired 10‑year GM Chris Ballard, and head coach Shane Steichen is now on the chopping block. With a 5‑0 but offensively weak Vikings at home and a nightmare trip to Jacksonville looming, the next two games could seal Steichen’s fate. A win against Minnesota’s strong defense and a victory in Jacksonville—where the Colts haven’t won in years—are essential for him to keep his job. The article warns that another loss will likely end his tenure.
Key Colts veterans provide answers to possibility of being moved before trade deadline
After longtime GM Chris Ballard’s firing, several Colts veterans weigh the trade‑deadline chatter. Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner says he’s focused on winning and hints at a possible move to the Minnesota Vikings. Guard Quenton Nelson stresses his love for Indianapolis, citing family and friendships. DT Grover Stewart and RB Jonathan Taylor both say they haven’t considered a trade, emphasizing loyalty to teammates as the Colts face the Vikings. The players’ candid responses highlight uncertainty around their futures as the November 10 deadline approaches.
Indianapolis Colts Injury Report: Week 7 Thursday
The Colts released their Thursday injury report ahead of Week 7 vs. the Vikings. WR Keenan Allen, RB Jonathan Taylor and CB Charvarius Ward return to full participation after being rested. LB Bryce Boettcher (groin) and Jaylon Carlies (ribs) are also full participants, with Carlies expected to be game‑ready. Rookie CB CJ Allen (ankle) remains limited, casting doubt on his Sunday availability. TE Tyler Warren (groin) missed practice and likely sits out, while TE Drew Ogletree (ankle) is cleared to play. CB Sauce Gardner (calf) and Punter Rigoberto Sanchez (foot) will miss the game. Guard Matt Goncalves (ankle) and tackle Jalen Travis (foot) are full participants and expected to suit up.
Stampede Blue Reacts Survey – Week 7
After a shocking 26-20 defeat to winless Tennessee, the Indianapolis Colts' 2-4 record has fans fuming. The loss, coming despite a 13-0 halftime lead, prompted owner Carlie Irsay‑Gordon to fire GM Chris Ballell—who’s overseen just two playoff trips since 2017—in under 24 hours. While the move won’t fix on‑field woes immediately, it signals a shift after years of mediocrity and could restore some faith in the franchise’s future. Coach Shane Steichen now faces intense pressure to spark a turnaround in the remaining 11 games and lift the team back into AFC playoff contention.
How much is Quenton Nelson worth on the trade market?
In the final installment of its three‑part series, Stampede Blue analyzes the trade market value of Colts guard Quenton Nelson. At 30, Nelson boasts eight straight Pro Bowls, six All‑Pro honors and a burgeoning Hall of Fame case, yet his position and expiring contract complicate his price. The piece benchmarks him against Joe Thuney, who fetched only a 2026 fourth‑round pick when the Chiefs traded the 32‑year‑old guard in 2025, and notes a lower‑round deal for Jonah Jackson as less relevant. The analysis concludes that, despite Nelson’s elite play, teams can expect modest draft compensation for a veteran guard with high salary and limited contract leverage.
Colts’ Week 6 QB Analysis: Fireable Offense
In Week 6 the Indianapolis Colts’ offense sputters as QB Daniel Jones posts a sub‑par performance, highlighted by a 72.7% drive success rate but three turnovers—including two costly interceptions—and six sacks. Jones ranks near the bottom in adjusted completion rate (29th) and turnover rate (4th), while his aggressive downfield throws yield low efficiency (‑0.09 EPA per play). Despite solid running‑game production and strong yards‑after‑catch from receivers, his inconsistent passing and high sack count (5th in sack %) cost the Colts a lone touchdown and a loss. The analysis, powered by nflFastR and PFF data, signals a downward trend for Jones after a promising start to the season.
Indianapolis Colts Injury Report: Week 7 Wednesday
The Indianapolis Colts released their Week 7 Wednesday injury report ahead of the matchup with the Minnesota Vikings. Key absentees include WR Keenan Allen (veteran rest), RB Jonathan Taylor (limited), CB Charvarius Ward (rest), and starters Sauce Gardner (calf) and Justin Walley (knee), with Gardner likely out for weeks. Linebackers Bryce Boettcher (groin) and Jaylon Carlies (ribs) miss practice, while Germaine Pratt may return from the practice squad. Additional injuries affect guard Matt Goncalves (ankle), TE Tyler Warren (groin), and WR Anthony Gould (concussion). Twelve players are limited as the Colts face a 5‑0 Vikings defense.
Colts Interim GM Ed Dodds makes first moves by adding pair of veterans to practice squad
Interim Colts GM Ed Dodds makes his first roster moves, adding veteran wide receiver Mecole Hardman Jr. and punter Thomas Morstead to the practice squad while releasing WR Eli Pancol. Hardman, a 2019 second‑round pick with 178 catches for 2,302 yards and 16 TDs, aims to revive his career after a go‑all‑zero stint with the Bills. Morstead, 40, joins as insurance after Rigoberto Sanchez’s foot injury on a blocked punt versus the Titans, bringing 272 career games and a recent 43.6‑yard average with the 49ers. The moves signal Dodds’s early impact as he takes over from former GM Chris Ballard.
1 playoff win, 10 seasons, and 100 reasons why the Colts had to fire Chris Ballard
The Indianapolis Colts have finally fired GM Chris Ballard after a decade marked by just two playoff appearances, one win, and no AFC Championship runs. Despite occasional bright spots and solid draft picks, Ballard’s tenure saw a 2-4 start to the 2026 season, a $50 million quarterback struggling to throw downfield, a benched fourth‑overall pick, and a porous defensive line. The blog argues that the team’s mediocre performance—neither rebuilding nor contending—made the move inevitable, calling it the 100th reason to part ways.
How much is DeForest Buckner worth on the trade market?
The article examines DeForest Buckner’s realistic trade value as the 2026 deadline approaches. At 32, Buckner remains a top interior pass rusher, logging four sacks, eight QB hits and 18 pressures in six games, but his contract expires in February, making him a short‑term rental. Comparisons to Leonard Williams (Seattle’s 2023 second‑round pick trade) and Sheldon Richardson (Seattle’s 2017 second‑round pick and player swap) suggest teams willing to pay significant draft capital for a proven defender, yet Buckner’s age and lack of post‑2026 control sharply reduce his price. A potential buyer would absorb roughly half of his $13 million 2026 salary, around $6.5 million, for the remainder of the season and playoffs.
Evaluating Colts veteran trade chips who could be on the move soon to jumpstart rebuild
With new interim GM Ed Dodds taking over after Chris Ballard’s firing, the 2-4 Indianapolis Colts may flip veteran assets before the early‑November deadline to recover draft capital for a rebuild. Potential trade chips include 32‑year‑old defensive tackle DeForest Buckner (26 tackles, 4 sacks this season) for a 2027 second‑round pick, veteran guard Quenton Nelson (all‑6 starts, +84.3 PFF grade, zero sacks allowed) for a 2027 first‑rounder, DT Grover Stewart (20 tackles, 0.5 sack) for a 2027 fourth‑rounder, and running back Jonathan Taylor, whose future remains undecided. Suitors range from the Bills, Rams and 49ers to the Lions, Vikings and Seahawks.
Colts ‘first call’ was reportedly to Peyton Manning for GM job, which isn’t first time franchise made strong push for reunion
Following the dismissal of GM Chris Ballard, the Indianapolis Colts reportedly made their first outreach to Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning about a front‑office role, according to Dan Patrick. This isn’t the franchise’s first attempt to bring Manning back; in early 2017 Jim Irsay secretly pushed for Manning to become team president alongside coach Jon Gruden. The new ownership, led by Carlie Irsay‑Gordon, may now consider Manning for President of Football Operations or as a senior advisor, potentially paired with a hired GM. The article revisits past negotiations, equity concerns, and parallels with other former quarterbacks turned executives.
Report: Colts Assistant GM Ed Dodds will oversee personnel department in interim for 2026
The Indianapolis Colts have promoted assistant GM Ed Dodds to oversee the personnel department on an interim basis after GM Chris Ballard’s dismissal on October 19, 2026. Head coach Shane Steichen and his staff will now report directly to ownership, likely CEO Carlie Irsay‑Gordon. Dodds, Ballard’s right‑hand since 2018 and a frequent GM candidate, will gain top‑level experience for the rest of the 2026 season, though his long‑term GM status remains uncertain.
Colts fire Chris Ballard after mounting 10 seasons of mediocrity
The Indianapolis Colts have fired GM Chris Ballard after ten seasons marked by a 72‑82‑1 record and no AFC South titles. The decision follows a 27‑20 loss to winless Tennessee at Lucas Oil Stadium, capping a five‑year playoff drought and a 12‑loss stretch in the last 15 games. Ballard’s tenure featured a revolving quarterback door—eight different season‑openers—including Daniel Jones, questionable linebacker and pass‑rush moves, and a costly trade for Sauce Gardner that sacrificed two first‑round picks. Owner Carlie Irsay‑Gordon, who had extended Ballard’s contract, now faces pressure to hire a new GM capable of rebuilding the roster ahead of the 2027 draft.
Rapid Reaction: Colts announce firing of longtime GM Chris Ballard following brutal Week 6 loss
The Indianapolis Colts (2-4) fire longtime GM Chris Ballell after a crushing Week 6 loss to the 0-5 Tennessee Titans, which erased a 13-0 halftime lead. Ballell, who joined in 2017, posted a 72‑82‑1 record with only two playoff trips, one win, and no division titles. Despite early success—earning PFWA Executive of the Year for the 2018 draft that produced Quenton Nelson, Darius Leonard and others—later drafts underperformed and free‑agency spending remained limited. Recent signings of safety Cam Bynum and cornerback Charvarius Ward failed to reverse the decline, prompting owner Carlie Irsay‑Gordon to make the change.
Displaying entries 1-25
of the latest 1,250