Colts Fire Chris Ballard as Manning Speculation Emerges

The Indianapolis Colts fired general manager Chris Ballard on October 19, opening a search for his replacement as reports raised the possibility of Peyton Manning joining the front office. The team has not confirmed that Manning is a candidate, and reports differed on whether the Colts had contacted him. Dan Patrick said on his show, citing an unnamed source, that Indianapolis would call Manning to seek suggestions for candidates and gauge his interest in the general-manager job. Patrick also described a possible ownership stake as part of a potential arrangement. His account does not establish that Manning has agreed to talks or wants the position. Mike Chappell reported that the Colts had not reached out to Manning after Ballard’s dismissal, while leaving open the possibility of future contact. The team has not publicly confirmed an approach to Manning or his candidacy. No offer or agreement has been announced. Manning, a Hall of Fame quarterback who played for Indianapolis and Denver, has not previously served as an NFL general manager. The reported possibility would bring a high-profile former player into a role overseeing football operations, but the sources do not...