Dan Patrick: Colts will explore hiring Peyton Manning as GM
The Indianapolis Colts have reportedly begun discussions with Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning about potentially becoming their next general manager, according to ESPN radio host Dan Patrick. The Colts fired general manager Chris Ballard after the team fell to 2-4 this season, including a loss to the previously winless Tennessee Titans. Patrick reported that the Colts' initial call to Manning would explore not only whether he'd take the GM role but also discuss offering him a minority ownership stake as an entry point. Manning, 50, spent his first 14 seasons with Indianapolis before being released in 2012, winning one Super Bowl with the franchise. However, a local Indianapolis reporter disputed Patrick's report, saying the Colts have not yet contacted Manning. Manning previously stated in 2024 that running an NFL team wasn't on his radar. The proposal would require Manning to step back from his ESPN media work and other business ventures if he accepted.
Key facts
- Indianapolis Colts fired general manager Chris Ballard on October 19, 2026, after a 2-4 start to the season
- Dan Patrick reported the Colts plan to contact or have contacted Peyton Manning about a GM role with potential ownership stake
- Mike Chappell of Fox59/CBS4 reported the Colts have not yet reached out to Manning as of October 19, 2026
- Peyton Manning is 50 years old and spent his first 14 seasons with the Colts, winning one Super Bowl
- Manning stated in 2024 that running an NFL team was not on his radar in any way
- Owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon, representing the next generation of ownership, made the firing decision mid-season
How different outlets framed it
Right-leaning coverage: Right-leaning commentators like Fox News' Dan Dakich expressed skepticism, arguing Manning has too many outside commitments and emphasizing that an NFL front office needs a dedicated football guy rather than someone juggling media production and commercial endorsements.
Limits of this briefing
The primary source is Dan Patrick citing an unnamed source, and local Indianapolis reporters have disputed whether contact has actually been made. Manning's own stated reluctance in past interviews suggests significant hurdles to any actual employment.
Sources
- NBC Sports: Dan Patrick: Colts will explore hiring Peyton Manning as G.M. Centre
- Bleacher Report: Peyton Manning Eyed by Colts for GM Job After Chris Ballard Fired, Dan Patrick Reveals in New Video Centre
- Awful Announcing: Dan Patrick: Colts reaching out to Peyton Manning about GM job, ownership stake Centre
- Yahoo Sports: Dan Patrick says Colts will discuss GM, ownership stake with Peyton Manning Centre
- Fox News: Dan Reacts to News Colts May Target Peyton Manning to Replace Chris Ballard Right