3 players that have likely played their last game with the Colts
2. Colts will move on from Matt Ryan
Matt Ryan will not be a free agent in 2023. In fact, Ryan has one season remaining on his contract and he is due just under $30 million. However, considering the fact that he was benched twice in his first season with the Colts, a sequel does not seem likely. It’s expected that Indianapolis will either cut Ryan or try to find a trade partner. A trade is unlikely though since Ryan is coming off the worst season of his career and he will soon turn 38 years old.
Ryan could retire, but in his first words, since the season ended, it doesn’t really seem like retirement is in his plans. He understands that part of the reason he didn’t have his best season is that Indianapolis didn’t provide him with the best circumstances. Ryan is hoping some other team understands that as well and gives him another chance.
Ryan on his future: "I still love playing. I think... obviously I'm not committed to anything, here, wherever. I gotta see how it shakes out (with the coaching search). But I still love playing. Honestly, I still like there’s a lot of good football in my body."
— Zak Keefer (@zkeefer) January 9, 2023
Is it possible that Ryan could return in 2023 and serve as a bridge quarterback while Indy develops the rookie it is likely to draft? Ryan doesn’t even have to be a bridge quarterback. He could just be a veteran backup that helps the rookie develop and adjust to the NFL. A situation like that will make sense but it doesn’t seem like that’s something the Colts nor Ryan is really looking for.
Whatever the solution is, Ryan is unlikely to be in Indianapolis when next season kicks off. Where he will be is a mystery. He could be enjoying retirement or he could be preparing to play for another team. The offseason will reveal what’s next.