Following an “embarrassing” performance and a devastating loss this past Sunday, many eyes are fixated on what’s next for the Indianapolis Colts, specifically what potential changes could be coming this offseason.
Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer would report that there are “murmurs” of possible front office shuffling. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler would report that defensive coordinator Gus Bradley appears to be on the “hot seat.”
But what about head coach Shane Steichen?
On a recent episode of the ‘Scoop City’ podcast, Dianna Russini of The Athletic had this to say:
“I’ve had some conversations around the league, in terms of Shane Steichen. I don’t get the sense that they’re going to make a move at this moment. But that could be something that changes,” Russini said.
Obviously, by Russini’s wording, there is still some uncertainty around what the future might hold for Steichen–nothing is set in stone at this time–but her report does align with others that are out there.
In addition to what Breer reported on Ballard, he also added while making an appearance on the ‘Rich Eisen Show’ that GM is the position in question for the Colts and not head coach. Breer added that he does think that Indianapolis does “really like Shane Steichen.”
Ian Rapoport, prior to Week 17, would report that Anthony Richardson is the “presumptive” starter for the Colts in 2025, noting the importance of maintaining continuity.
“As coach Shane Steichen, OC Jim Bob Cooter and Richardson all enter their third season together, the hope is that it all crystalizes in continued success,” wrote Rapoport.
The unknown is the unpredictability that can come with owner Jim Irsay and the fact that the loss suffered by the Colts in Week 17 is enough to shift opinions and change minds when it comes to what the future holds.
After Steichen helped guide the Colts to a 9-8 record in 2023–his first season–and on the cusp of the playoffs with Gardner Minshew at quarterback, there was quite a bit of optimism around the 2024 season.
However, as we all know, that isn’t how things played out. Steichen instead, seemed to regress and the offense did as well. The game-plans, certain in-game decisions, and messaging all seemed to take a step backwards.
Even with the ups and downs that came this season, from his time in Philadelphia and in his tenure with the Colts, Steichen has shown to be a good offensive architect. But as we all know, there’s so much that goes into being the head coach and in charge of the entire operation.
Ultimately, Steichen’s success will be tied to Richardson’s development.