The Indianapolis Colts have a strong foundation of proven veterans. Contrary to what some of their detractors claim, they have bona fide stars on both sides of the field, and they could give any Super Bowl contender a run for their money.
The problem, however, is that only one team will be standing at the end of the season. As such, teams going all-in and entering 'Super Bowl-or-bust' mode might fall victim to their own expectations and moves.
Colts general manager Chris Ballard might be next on that list. He jeopardized the team's future by trading for Sauce Gardner and doubled down on it with a two-year deal for Daniel Jones. That's why it's not much of a surprise to see the Colts ranked No. 6 in ESPN's future power rankings, which cover all 32 teams from 2027 through 2029.
Chris Ballard might be the Indianapolis Colts' biggest problem
The rankings rate every team's quarterback situation, remaining roster makeup, front office, and coaching staff. The Colts got a 73.9 grade, which is good for an 'average' ranking, but their front office was actually considered the second-worst in the league.
That speaks volumes about the way Ballard is seen around the league, and he may not get the benefit of the doubt this season after such an inexplicable collapse in 2025. Yes, the ownership backed him on the Gardner gamble, but results have to matter at some point as well.
The Colts have Alec Pierce and Tyler Warren signed through the future, and it should be just a matter of time before they extend Quenton Nelson, Jonathan Taylor, and maybe even Josh Downs. Daniel Jones' situation and level of play will also be a big factor in this equation, as Ballard has pretty much laid his own bed with this move.
Granted, this ranking is merely subjective, and even though ESPN experts may feel that way about Ballard, that doesn't necessarily mean the organization or the fans should feel the same way. Granted, it's hard to be optimistic after watching the team make the same mistakes over and over and all the swing-and-misses at quarterback.
The Colts have some promising pieces and developmental players. Bryce Boettcher, C.J. Allen, and A.J. Haulcy all have star potential, and maybe even George Gumbs Jr. can be a difference-maker alongside Laiatu Latu one day.
Jalen Farmer could turn out to be yet another elite interior lineman in Indianapolis, and the aforementioned Warren has the makings of a superstar. But will that be enough to keep this team afloat through 2029 and beyond? Has the front office done enough to keep this team competitive for years to come?
Only time will tell, but there are valid reasons for skepticism.
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