Peyton Manning Weighs in on Colts GM Role After Ballard Firing

WHO:

NY Post - Peyton Manning is identified as a possible returnee to the NFL.

Heavy NFL - Chris Ballard was the Indianapolis Colts’ long-time general manager; Peyton Manning was identified as a potential candidate for the role.

Heavy NFL - The Tennessee Titans are described as previously winless at the time of their game against the Colts.

WHAT:

NY Post - Manning is not expected to return to the NFL “at least for now.”

Heavy NFL - The Indianapolis Colts fired general manager Chris Ballard, creating an opening for a new general manager.

Heavy NFL - Manning’s name was floated almost immediately as a candidate to become the Colts’ general manager.

WHERE:

Heavy NFL - The general manager vacancy is with the Indianapolis Colts.

Heavy NFL - The Colts’ loss was to the Tennessee Titans.

WHY:

Heavy NFL - Ballard was fired after the Colts lost to the previously winless Titans.

HOW:

Heavy NFL - The Colts’ general manager opening followed Ballard’s firing after the loss.

(UPDATED October 25, 2026 16:04 UTC)

The Indianapolis Colts have fired longtime general manager Chris Ballard after losing to the Tennessee Titans, who had been winless before the game. The move leaves the Colts with an opening at the top of their football operations. Peyton Manning’s name was floated almost immediately as a possible candidate to take over the general manager role. Manning, the former Colts quarterback, has also been identified as a possible returnee to the NFL. But he is not expected to return, at least for now. The Colts’ loss to Tennessee was the trigger for Ballard’s dismissal, and the team now faces the task of finding his replacement. While Manning is being discussed as a potential choice, there is no indication that he plans to pursue the job.