Gus Bradley Had To Go, But He’s Just The Tip Of The Iceberg
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The Indianapolis Colts parted ways with defensive coordinator Gus Bradley on Monday night, in a move that had been widely expected.
It was a necessary change for Indianapolis, as their defense under Bradley was consistently subpar. In his three years helming the unit, they finished as follows:
- 2022: 15th in yards and 28th in points
- 2023: 24th in yards and 28th in points
- 2024: 29th in yards and 24th in points
That simply is not good enough, and the Colts honestly would have been justified in cutting bait after last season.
It was also necessary to try and appease the fanbase. Simply put, fans are not happy that Chris Ballard is getting another crack at things after 8 years of mediocrity. In many ways, Bradley was the scapegoat, the sacrificial lamb the Colts are offering up in lieu of Ballard. Did he deserve to lose his job? Absolutely. Is he the only one who does? Absolutely not.
Now, Shane Steichen will get to select his own defensive coordinator. Considering where this franchise is, and the perception of this being a make-or-break year for Ballard, who knows what the quality of candidates will be. Would a quality coach really want to join a coaching staff and organization that could potentially be completely overhauled in 2026? (This is of course assuming Ballard actually is on the hot seat next season. He has to be….right?) And what difference will a new defensive coordinator honestly make, if they’re going to operate the same scheme and with the same pieces that Ballard has put together?
Check out JMV’s conversation with Greg Rakestraw from the Colts 5th Quarter Huddle about the departure of Gus Bradley and more, as well as his conversation with Tony East of Locked On Pacers and more, and tune into The Ride With JMV weekdays from 3-6pm on 93.5/107.5 The Fan!
