Colts GM Chris Ballard Discusses Key Offseason Priorities at NFL Combine

Ballard provides updates on contract negotiations, injured players, and the team's plans for the 2026 season.

Feb. 24, 2026 at 9:50pm

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Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard met with the media at the 2026 NFL Combine, discussing a range of topics including contract negotiations with key players, the status of injured stars, and the team's offseason priorities.

Why it matters

As the Colts look to build on their success from last season, Ballard's comments provide valuable insight into the team's strategy and the challenges they face in retaining top talent while managing the salary cap.

The details

Ballard expressed optimism about the futures of several Colts players, including wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. and cornerback Charvarius Ward, despite their recent injury concerns. The GM also discussed the team's efforts to sign quarterback Daniel Jones and wide receiver Alec Pierce to contract extensions, noting that they would prefer to avoid using the franchise tag if possible.

  • The press conference took place on February 24, 2026 at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis.

The players

Chris Ballard

The general manager of the Indianapolis Colts, responsible for overseeing the team's roster and personnel decisions.

Tyler Warren

A player on the Colts roster whose performance did not surprise Ballard.

Charvarius Ward

A Colts cornerback whose future is uncertain after sustaining three concussions last season, but Ballard is optimistic he will be able to play.

DeForest Buckner

A Colts defensive lineman who is recovering from an injury, with Ballard unsure of his exact return timeline but hopeful it will be by training camp or sooner.

Daniel Jones

The Colts' quarterback, who the team is working to sign to a contract extension.

Alec Pierce

A Colts wide receiver who the team is also working to sign to a contract extension.

Michael Pittman Jr.

A Colts wide receiver whose future with the team is not in doubt, despite his large salary cap hit.

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What they’re saying

“Didn't surprise me what he did,”

— Chris Ballard, General Manager (Colts Wire)

“His frame of mind is really good right now,”

— Chris Ballard, General Manager (Colts Wire)

“We'll continue to work this week and see if we can get something done,”

— Chris Ballard, General Manager (Colts Wire)

“It's not what we want to do, it's a tool we have.”

— Chris Ballard, General Manager (Colts Wire)

“Any suggestion that he's not going to be here is a pure hypothetical in my mind,”

— Chris Ballard, General Manager (Colts Wire)

What’s next

The Colts will continue contract negotiations with Daniel Jones and Alec Pierce this week, with the goal of reaching extensions before having to use the franchise tag.

The takeaway

Ballard's comments suggest the Colts are focused on retaining their core players and building on last season's success, despite the challenges of managing the salary cap. The team appears optimistic about the futures of several key players, but must still work to lock up their quarterback and top receiver to long-term deals.