Editing Indianapolis Colts (section)

=== Jim Irsay era (1997–2025) ===
Along with the disappointing season, the principal owner and man who moved the team to Indianapolis, Robert Irsay, died in January 1997 after years of declining health.<ref>{{cite news|last=Eskenazi|first=Gerald|title=Robert Irsay, 73, Executive In Shift of N.F.L. Colts, Dies|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1997/01/15/sports/robert-irsay-73-executive-in-shift-of-nfl-colts-dies.html?pagewanted=all&src=pm|newspaper=The New York Times|access-date=July 4, 2012|date=January 15, 1997|archive-date=December 19, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131219200332/http://www.nytimes.com/1997/01/15/sports/robert-irsay-73-executive-in-shift-of-nfl-colts-dies.html?pagewanted=all&src=pm|url-status=live}}</ref> Jim Irsay, Robert Irsay's son, entered the role of principal owner following his father's death and quickly began to change the organization. Irsay replaced general manager Tobin with [[Bill Polian]] in 1997 as the team decided to build through their number one overall pick in the [[1998 NFL draft|1998 draft]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Colts Fire Tobin, Infante, Hire Panthers' Polian|url=http://articles.philly.com/1997-12-23/sports/25553723_1_bill-tobin-football-operations-bill-polian|work=[[The Philadelphia Inquirer]]|access-date=July 4, 2012|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303222758/http://articles.philly.com/1997-12-23/sports/25553723_1_bill-tobin-football-operations-bill-polian|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==== Jim Mora years (1998–2001) ====
[[Image:Peyton Manning passing.jpg|thumb|right|alt=Manning squaring up to pass the ball|upright|[[Peyton Manning]] was the starting quarterback for the Colts from 1998 until 2010.]]
[[Jim Irsay]] began to shape the Colts one year after assuming control from his father by firing head coach [[Lindy Infante]] and hiring [[Bill Polian]] as the general manager of the organization.<ref>{{Cite web |date=1997-12-23 |title=Colts Fire Infante, Tobin |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1997-dec-23-sp-1626-story.html |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=Los Angeles Times |language=en-US}}</ref> Polian in turn hired [[Jim E. Mora]] to become the next head coach of the team and drafted [[Tennessee Volunteers football|Tennessee Volunteer]] quarterback [[Peyton Manning]], the son of [[New&nbsp;Orleans Saints]] legend [[Archie Manning]], with the first overall pick in the [[1998 NFL draft]].<ref name="t501">{{cite web | title=N.F.L. DRAFT DAY '98; Colts Agonize to the End, Then Pick Manning | website=The New York Times | date=1998-04-19 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/1998/04/19/sports/nfl-draft-day-98-colts-agonize-to-the-end-then-pick-manning.html | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref>

The team and Manning struggled during the [[1998 Indianapolis Colts season|1998 season]], winning only three games;<ref>{{Cite web |title=1998 Indianapolis Colts Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/clt/1998.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Manning threw a league high 28 interceptions.<ref name="Manning Stats">{{cite web|title=Peyton Manning:Career Stats|url=http://www.nfl.com/player/peytonmanning/2501863/careerstats|work=NFL.com|access-date=July 4, 2012|archive-date=June 14, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120614225741/http://www.nfl.com/player/peytonmanning/2501863/careerstats|url-status=live}}</ref> However, Manning did pass for 3,739&nbsp;yards and threw 26 touchdown passes and was named to the NFL All-Rookie First Team.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Peyton Manning 1998 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MannPe00/gamelog/1998/ |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1998 NFL All-Rookie Team |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/nfl-all-rookie-1998.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> The Colts began to improve towards the end of the 1998 season and showed continued growth in [[1999 Indianapolis Colts season|1999]]. Indianapolis drafted [[Edgerrin James]] in [[1999 NFL draft|1999]] and continued to improve their roster heading into the upcoming season.<ref>{{cite web|title=1999 NFL Draft History – Round 1|url=http://www.mynfldraft.com/1999|publisher=MyNFLDraft.com|access-date=July 4, 2012|archive-date=June 24, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120624042402/http://www.mynfldraft.com/1999|url-status=live}}</ref> The Colts went 13–3 in 1999 and finished first in the [[AFC East]], their first division title since 1987. Indianapolis lost to the eventual AFC champion [[Tennessee Titans]] in the [[1999–2000 NFL playoffs|divisional playoffs]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Divisional Round - Tennessee Titans at Indianapolis Colts - January 16th, 2000 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200001160clt.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

The [[2000 Indianapolis Colts season|2000]] and [[2001 Indianapolis Colts season|2001]] Colts teams were considerably less successful compared to the 1999 team. The 2000 team went 10–6 and had their season end in the Wild Card Round with an overtime loss to the Miami Dolphins.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2000 Indianapolis Colts Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/clt/2000.htm |access-date=2024-08-18 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Pressure began to mount on team administration and the coaching staff following a 6–10 season in 2001.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2001 Indianapolis Colts Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/clt/2001.htm |access-date=2024-08-18 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

==== Tony Dungy years (2002–2008) ====
Mora was fired at the end of the season and was replaced by former [[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]] head coach [[Tony Dungy]].<ref>{{cite news|last=Bell|first=Jarrett|title=Dungy riding high with Colts|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/nfl/colts/2002-06-12-focus-dungy.htm|work=[[USA Today]]|access-date=July 4, 2012|date=June 11, 2002|archive-date=April 19, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090419230525/http://www.usatoday.com/sports/nfl/colts/2002-06-12-focus-dungy.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> Dungy and the team quickly changed the atmosphere of the organization and returned to the playoffs in [[2002 Indianapolis Colts season|2002]] with a 10–6 record, only for them to get shut out in the [[2002–03 NFL playoffs|2002 Wild Card Round]] to the [[2002 New York Jets season|New York Jets]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=2002 Indianapolis Colts Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/clt/2002.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> The Colts also returned to the playoffs in [[2003 Indianapolis Colts season|2003]] and [[2004 Indianapolis Colts season|2004]] with 12–4 records and [[AFC South]] championships.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2003 Indianapolis Colts Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/clt/2003.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=2004 Indianapolis Colts Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/clt/2004.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> The Colts lost to the [[2003 New England Patriots season|New England Patriots]] and [[Tom Brady]] in the [[2003–04 NFL playoffs|2003 AFC Championship Game]] and in the [[2004–05 NFL playoffs|2004 divisional playoffs]], thereby beginning a rivalry between the two teams, and between Manning and Brady.<ref>{{cite news|last=Mihoces|first=Gary|title=NFL's biggest rivalry? Tom Brady, Peyton Manning to duel|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/2010-11-21-colts-patriots-manning-brady-preview_N.htm?csp=34sports|work=[[USA Today]]|access-date=July 4, 2012|date=November 21, 2010|archive-date=April 29, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210429185214/https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/2010-11-21-colts-patriots-manning-brady-preview_N.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> Following two consecutive playoff losses to the Patriots, the Colts began the [[2005 Indianapolis Colts season|2005 season]] with a 13–0 record, including a regular season victory over the [[2005 New England Patriots season|Patriots]], the first in the Manning era.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Donaldson |first=Jim |date=November 13, 2009 |title=Patriots vs. Colts, The Tide Turns: Nov. 7, 2005 |url=http://blogs.providencejournal.com/sports/patriots/2009/11/the-tide-turns.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202235002/http://blogs.providencejournal.com/sports/patriots/2009/11/the-tide-turns.html |archive-date=December 2, 2013 |access-date=July 4, 2012 |work=The Providence Journal}}</ref> During the season, Manning and [[Marvin Harrison]] broke the NFL record for touchdowns by a quarterback and receiver tandem.<ref>{{cite news|title=Manning, Harrison match Young, Rice|url=https://www.baltimoresun.com/2005/10/03/manning-harrison-match-young-rice/|newspaper=The Baltimore Sun|access-date=July 4, 2012|archive-date=December 2, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202222058/http://articles.baltimoresun.com/2005-10-03/sports/0510030129_1_titans-colts-manning-and-harrison|url-status=live}}</ref> Indianapolis finished the 2005 season with a 14–2 record, the best record in the league that year and the best in a 16 games season for the franchise, but lost to the [[2005 Pittsburgh Steelers season|Pittsburgh Steelers]] in the divisional round.<ref>{{cite web|last=Pasquarelli|first=Len|title=Colts ready to put disappointing end behind them|date=February 8, 2006|url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=pasquarelli_len&id=2323106|publisher=[[ESPN]]|access-date=July 4, 2012|archive-date=July 29, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130729023545/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=pasquarelli_len&id=2323106|url-status=live}}</ref>

===== Super Bowl XLI champions (2006) =====
Indianapolis entered the [[2006 Indianapolis Colts season|2006 season]] with a veteran quarterback, receivers, and defenders, and chose running back [[Joseph Addai]] in the [[2006 NFL draft|2006 draft]].<ref>{{cite web|title=2006 NFL Draft History – Round 1|url=http://www.mynfldraft.com/2006|publisher=MyNFLDraft.com|access-date=July 4, 2012|archive-date=June 21, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120621042959/http://www.mynfldraft.com/2006|url-status=live}}</ref> As in the previous season, the Colts began the season undefeated and went 9–0 before losing their first game against the [[2006 Dallas Cowboys season|Dallas Cowboys]].<ref name="w265">{{cite web | title=NFL: Cowboys break the Colts' nerve and their streak | website=The New York Times | date=2006-11-20 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2006/11/20/sports/20iht-NFL.3599475.html | access-date=2024-08-18}}</ref> Indianapolis finished the season with a 12–4 record and entered the playoffs for the fifth consecutive year, this time as the number three seed in the AFC. The Colts won their first two [[2006–07 NFL playoffs|playoff]] games against the [[2006 Kansas City Chiefs season|Kansas City Chiefs]] and the [[2006 Baltimore Ravens season|Baltimore Ravens]] to return to the AFC Championship Game for the first time since the 2003 playoffs, where they faced their rivals, the [[2006 New England Patriots season|New England Patriots]]. In a classic game,<ref>{{cite web|title=Games of the Decade – Getting rid of the monkey|url=https://www.espn.com/espn/page2/story?page=games/decade/2006afcchampionship|publisher=[[ESPN]]|access-date=July 4, 2012|archive-date=July 29, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130729020455/http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=games%2Fdecade%2F2006afcchampionship|url-status=live}}</ref> the Colts overcame a 21–3 first-half deficit to win the game 38–34 and earned a trip to [[Super Bowl&nbsp;XLI]], the franchise's first [[Super Bowl]] appearance since [[Super Bowl V|1970]] and for the first based in Indianapolis. The Colts faced the [[2006 Chicago Bears season|Chicago Bears]] in the Super Bowl, winning the game 29–17 and giving Manning, Polian, Irsay, and Dungy, as well as the city of Indianapolis, their first Super Bowl title.<ref>{{cite web|title=Super Bowl XLI|url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/playoffs06/series?series=indchi|publisher=[[ESPN]]|access-date=July 4, 2012|archive-date=May 7, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120507101106/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/playoffs06/series?series=indchi|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Weisman|first=Larry|title=Colts reign supreme over Bears in Super Bowl XLI|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/games/2007-02-04-super-bowl-game-story_x.htm|work=[[USA Today]]|access-date=July 4, 2012|date=February 6, 2007|archive-date=May 13, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120513212617/http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/games/2007-02-04-super-bowl-game-story_x.htm|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Padgett |first=Tim |date=February 5, 2007 |title=Revenge of the Hoosiers |url=http://content.time.com/time/arts/article/0,8599,1585951,00.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130928042542/http://content.time.com/time/arts/article/0,8599,1585951,00.html |archive-date=September 28, 2013 |access-date=June 24, 2022 |website=Time Magazine}}</ref>

Following their Super Bowl championship, the Colts compiled a 13–3 record during the [[2007 Indianapolis Colts season|2007 season]]; they lost to the [[2007 San Diego Chargers season|San&nbsp;Diego Chargers]] in the [[2007–08 NFL playoffs|divisional playoffs]], in what was the final game the Colts played at the RCA Dome before moving into [[Lucas Oil Stadium]] in [[2008 Indianapolis Colts season|2008]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Clayton|first=John|title=Colts unravel; all signs point to Dungy's departure|date=January 13, 2008|url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/playoffs07/columns/story?columnist=clayton_john&id=3195151|publisher=[[ESPN]]|access-date=July 4, 2012|archive-date=September 30, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150930111627/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/playoffs07/columns/story?columnist=clayton_john&id=3195151|url-status=live}}</ref> The 2008 season began with Manning being sidelined for most of the pre-season due to surgery.<ref>{{Cite web |date=July 15, 2008 |title=Manning has infected bursa sac removed from left knee |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3487657 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120729235408/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3487657 |archive-date=July 29, 2012 |access-date=July 4, 2012 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press}}</ref> Indianapolis began the season with a 3–4 record, but then won nine consecutive games to end the season at 12–4 and make in into the playoffs as a wild card team, eventually losing to the [[2008 San Diego Chargers season|Chargers]] in the wild card round.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Wild Card - Indianapolis Colts at San Diego Chargers - January 3rd, 2009 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200901030sdg.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Following the season, Tony Dungy announced his retirement after seven seasons as head coach, having compiled an overall record of 92–33 with the team.<ref name="Dungy Retires/Caldwell Hired">{{Cite web |date=January 12, 2009 |title=Dungy retires after 7&nbsp;seasons with Colts |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3827058 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121026035403/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3827058 |archive-date=October 26, 2012 |access-date=July 4, 2012 |website=[[ESPN.com]]|agency=[[Associated Press]]}}</ref>

[[File:Indpls Colts huddle during Super Bowl XLIV.jpg|thumb|alt=The Colts huddling|upright=1.0|Indianapolis offensive line huddles during [[Super Bowl XLIV]] (2010)]]

==== Jim Caldwell years (2009–2011) ====
[[Jim Caldwell (American football)|Jim Caldwell]] was hired as head coach of the team following Dungy, and led the team during the [[2009 Indianapolis Colts season|2009 season]].<ref name="Dungy Retires/Caldwell Hired"/> The Colts went 14–0 during the season to finish with an overall record of 14–2 after controversially [[Benching the starters|benching their starters]] during the last two games.<ref name="n400">{{cite web | last=Robinson | first=Charles | title=Colts throw in the towel on perfection | website=Yahoo! Sports | date=2009-12-28 | url=https://sports.yahoo.com/cr-winnersandlosers122709.html | access-date=2024-08-18}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kirschner |first=Kris |date=December 28, 2009 |title=Colts fans furious over decision to pull starters |url=http://www.wthr.com/global/story.asp?s=11737675 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130323195628/http://www.wthr.com/global/story.asp?s=11737675 |archive-date=March 23, 2013 |access-date=July 4, 2012 |publisher=WTHR}}</ref> The Colts for the second time in the Manning era entered the playoffs with the best record in the AFC. The Colts managed victories over the [[2009 Baltimore Ravens season|Baltimore Ravens]] and [[2009 New York Jets season|New York Jets]] to advance to [[Super Bowl&nbsp;XLIV]] against the [[2009 New Orleans Saints season|New&nbsp;Orleans Saints]],<ref>{{cite news|last=Corbett|first=Jim|title=Saints outlast Vikings in OT, will face Colts in Super Bowl|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/2010-01-24-vikings-saints_N.htm?csp=hf|work=[[USA Today]]|access-date=July 4, 2012|date=January 25, 2010|archive-date=April 29, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210429185211/https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/2010-01-24-vikings-saints_N.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> but lost to the Saints 31–17.<ref>{{Cite web |date=February 7, 2010 |title=Despite disappointment, Colts fans say they're happy for Saints |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/despite-disappointment-colts-fans-say-they-re-happy-for-saints-09000d5d81648ed5 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181110080319/http://www.nfl.com/superbowl/story/09000d5d81648ed5/article/despite-disappointment-colts-fans-say-theyre-happy-for-saints |archive-date=November 10, 2018 |access-date=July 4, 2012 |website=NFL.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Colts to return to Indianapolis Monday afternoon|url=http://www.wthr.com/global/story.asp?s=11948910|publisher=WTHR|access-date=July 4, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100210100111/http://www.wthr.com/global/story.asp?s=11948910|archive-date=February 10, 2010|url-status=dead}}</ref>

At the completion of the 2009 season, the Colts had finished the first decade of the 2000s (2000–2009) with the most regular-season wins (115) and highest winning percentage (.719) of any team in the NFL during that span.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pfref.com/tiny/9bRyc|title=Team Game Finder Query Results - Pro-Football-Reference.com|website=[[Pro Football Reference]]|access-date=April 29, 2021|archive-date=April 29, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210429185200/https://stathead.com/tools/tiny.fcgi?id=9bRyc|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=mcubed.net : NFL : NFL : Regular season wins in the 2000's |url=http://mcubed.net/nfl/fw2000.shtml |access-date=June 24, 2022 |website=mcubed.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Decade of Dominance {{!}} Pro Football Hall of Fame Official Site |url=https://www.profootballhof.com/news/2009/09/news-decade-of-dominance/ |access-date=June 24, 2022 |website=pfhof |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Standings, 2000–2009 {{!}} Football Outsiders |url=https://www.footballoutsiders.com/extra-points/2010/nfl-standings-2000-2009 |access-date=June 24, 2022 |website=www.footballoutsiders.com |language=en}}</ref>

The [[2010 Indianapolis Colts season|2010]] team compiled a 10–6 record, the first time the Colts did not win 12 games since 2002, and lost to the [[2010 New York Jets season|New&nbsp;York Jets]] in the wild card round of the playoffs.<ref>{{cite news|last=Bishop|first=Greg|title=Jets Narrowly Escape Manning and the Colts|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/09/sports/football/09jets.html|newspaper=The New York Times|access-date=July 4, 2012|date=January 8, 2011|archive-date=October 6, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006130416/http://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/09/sports/football/09jets.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The loss to the Jets was the last game for Peyton Manning as a Colt.<ref name="i255">{{cite web | last=Joyce | first=Greg | title=The night Jets got revenge and ended a storied Peyton Manning chapter | website=New York Post | date=2020-06-05 | url=https://nypost.com/2020/06/05/the-night-jets-got-revenge-and-ended-a-storied-peyton-manning-chapter/ | access-date=2024-08-18}}</ref>

After missing the preseason, Manning was ruled out for the Colts' opening game in Houston and eventually the entire [[2011 Indianapolis Colts season|2011 season]].<ref>{{Cite magazine |date=2011-09-08 |title=Peyton Manning reportedly has new surgery, out 2-3 months |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/2011/09/08/jim-irsay-peyton-manning-out-for-awhile |access-date=2024-08-18 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |language=en-us}}</ref> Taking over as starter was veteran quarterback [[Kerry Collins]], who had been signed to the team after dissatisfaction with backup quarterback [[Curtis Painter]] and [[Dan Orlovsky]].<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Mortensen |first1=Chris |last2=Clayton |first2=John |date=August 24, 2011 |title=Kerry Collins joins Colts |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/6891243/indianapolis-colts-add-kerry-collins-sources-doubt-peyton-manning-ready |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120102065925/http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/6891243/indianapolis-colts-add-kerry-collins-sources-doubt-peyton-manning-ready |archive-date=January 2, 2012 |access-date=July 4, 2012 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press}}</ref> However, even with a veteran quarterback, the Colts lost their first 13 games and finished the season with a 2–14 record, enough to receive the first overall pick in the [[2012 NFL draft|2012 draft]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=2011 Indianapolis Colts Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/clt/2011.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Pomin |first=Ernie |date=2012-01-01 |title=Andrew Luck Sweepstakes: Indianapolis Colts Clinch No. 1 Pick In 2012 NFL Draft |url=https://bayarea.sbnation.com/stanford-cardinal/2012/1/1/2674664/andrew-luck-sweepstakes-indianapolis-colts-2012-nfl-draft |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=SB Nation Bay Area |language=en}}</ref> Immediately following the season, team president Bill Polian was fired, ending his 14-year tenure with the team.<ref name="h630">{{cite web | title=Colts oust executives Bill and Chris Polian after 2-14 season | website=NFL.com | date=2012-01-02 | url=https://www.nfl.com/news/colts-oust-executives-bill-and-chris-polian-after-2-14-season-09000d5d825a6ca7 | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref> The change built the anticipation of the organization's decision regarding Manning's future with the team. The Peyton Manning era came to an end on March&nbsp;8, 2012, when Jim Irsay announced that Manning was being released from the roster after 13 seasons.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Mortensen |first1=Chris |last2=Schefter |first2=Adam |last3=Anderson |first3=Josina |date=2012-03-07 |title=Colts, Manning part ways after 14 seasons |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7656028/indianapolis-colts-peyton-manning-part-ways-14-seasons |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press |language=en}}</ref>

==== Chuck Pagano years (2012–2017) ====
[[Image:Andrew Luck 2013.jpg|thumb|right|alt=Andrew Luck about to pass|Luck during his first playoff game against the Baltimore Ravens]]
During the 2012 off-season owner Jim Irsay hired [[Ryan Grigson]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 11, 2012 |title=Colts hire Ryan Grigson as new GM |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7449840/indianapolis-colts-hire-philadelphia-eagles-ryan-grigson-gm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120702025156/http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/7449840/indianapolis-colts-hire-philadelphia-eagles-ryan-grigson-gm |archive-date=July 2, 2012 |access-date=July 4, 2012 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press}}</ref> to be the General Manager. Grigson decided to let head coach Jim Caldwell go and [[Chuck Pagano]] was hired as the new head coach shortly thereafter.<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 25, 2012 |title=Colts name Chuck Pagano coach |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7503273/chuck-pagano-hired-indianapolis-colts-coach |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120629161656/http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/7503273/chuck-pagano-hired-indianapolis-colts-coach |archive-date=June 29, 2012 |access-date=July 4, 2012 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press}}</ref> The Colts also began to release some higher paid and oft-injured veteran players, including [[Joseph Addai]], [[Dallas Clark]], and [[Gary Brackett]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Colts release five players|url=http://www.wthr.com/story/17123925/report-colts-release-lb-gary-brackett|publisher=WTHR|access-date=July 4, 2012|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303212025/http://www.wthr.com/story/17123925/report-colts-release-lb-gary-brackett|url-status=dead}}</ref> The Colts used their number one overall draft pick in 2012 to draft [[Stanford Cardinal football|Stanford Cardinal]] quarterback [[Andrew Luck]] and also drafted his teammate [[Coby Fleener]] in the second round.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schefter |first=Adam |date=April 26, 2012 |title=Colts draft Andrew Luck at No.&nbsp;1 |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7859344 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130729021558/http://m.espn.go.com/nfl/story?storyId=7859344&ampex_cid=espnapi_partner&wjb |archive-date=July 29, 2013 |access-date=July 4, 2012 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Colts draft Fleener in round 2|url=http://www.wlfi.com/dpp/sports/colts-draft-fleener-in-round-2|publisher=WLFI|access-date=July 4, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130605102625/http://www.wlfi.com/dpp/sports/colts-draft-fleener-in-round-2|archive-date=June 5, 2013}}</ref> The team also switched to a 3–4 defensive scheme.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wells |first=Brad |date=2012-06-05 |title=Switching To A 3-4: Can The Colts Do It? |url=https://www.stampedeblue.com/2012/6/5/3065399/switching-to-a-3-4-can-the-colts-do-it |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=Stampede Blue |language=en}}</ref>

With productive seasons from both Luck and veteran receiver [[Reggie Wayne]], the Colts rebounded from the 2–14 season of 2011 with a [[2012 NFL season|2012 season]] record of 11–5.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2012 Indianapolis Colts Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/clt/2012.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> The franchise, team, and fan base rallied behind head coach [[Chuck Pagano]] during his fight with [[leukemia]].<ref name="y576">{{cite web | last=Davenport | first=Gary | title=Why Chuck Pagano's Inspiring Story, Leadership Will Boost Colts to Playoffs. | website=Bleacher Report | date=2012-11-05 | url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1397828-why-chuck-paganos-inspiring-story-leadership-will-boost-colts-to-playoffs | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref> Clinching an unexpected playoff spot in the [[2012–13 NFL playoffs]], the 14th playoff berth for the club since [[1995 Indianapolis Colts season|1995]]. The season ended in a 24–9 playoff loss to the eventual Super Bowl Champion [[2012 Baltimore Ravens season|Baltimore Ravens]].<ref name="q472">{{cite web | title=Baltimore Ravens defeat the Indianapolis Colts, 24-9, in an AFC wild card playoff game | website=cleveland.com | date=2013-01-07 | url=https://www.cleveland.com/sports/2013/01/baltimore_ravens_defeat_the_in.html | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref>

Two weeks into the 2013 season, the Colts traded their first-round selection in the [[2014 NFL draft]] to the [[Cleveland Browns]] for running back [[Trent Richardson]].<ref name="h004">{{cite web | last=Rosenthal | first=Gregg | title=Trent Richardson traded to Colts from Browns for pick | website=NFL.com | date=2013-09-18 | url=https://www.nfl.com/news/trent-richardson-traded-to-colts-from-browns-for-pick-0ap2000000246821 | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref> In Week&nbsp;7, Luck led the Colts to a 39–33 win over his predecessor, [[Peyton Manning]], and the undefeated [[Denver Broncos|Broncos]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wells |first=Brad |date=2013-10-21 |title=Colts beat Broncos 39-33 in a game for the ages |url=https://www.stampedeblue.com/2013/10/21/4860936/final-colts-defeat-broncos-39-33-in-game-for-the-ages |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=Stampede Blue |language=en}}</ref> Luck went on to lead the Colts to a 15th division championship later that season. In the first round of the [[2013–14 NFL playoffs|2013 NFL playoffs]], Andrew Luck led the Colts to a 45–44 victory over Kansas City, outscoring the Chiefs 35–13 in the second half in the second biggest comeback in NFL playoff history.<ref name="o761">{{cite web | last=Wells | first=Mike | title=Andrew Luck's masterpiece: Comeback vs. Chiefs in '13 playoffs | website=ESPN.com | date=2019-01-11 | url=https://www.espn.com/blog/indianapolis-colts/post/_/id/24193/andrew-lucks-masterpiece-comeback-vs-chiefs-in-13-playoffs#:~:text=The%20Colts%20fell%20behind%2038,443%20yards%20and%20four%20touchdowns. | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref>

During the 2014 season, Luck led the Colts to the AFC Championship game for the first time in his career after breaking the Colts' single-season passing yardage record previously held by Manning.<ref>{{cite news|last=Wilson|first=Josh|title=Andrew Luck Breaks Peyton Manning's Colts Franchise Record for Single-Season Passing Yards|url=http://www.stampedeblue.com/2014/12/28/7457399/andrew-luck-breaks-peyton-mannings-colts-franchise-record-for-single|publisher=[[SB Nation]]|date=December 28, 2014|access-date=February 3, 2017|archive-date=July 4, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170704054846/https://www.stampedeblue.com/2014/12/28/7457399/andrew-luck-breaks-peyton-mannings-colts-franchise-record-for-single|url-status=live}}</ref>

After the Colts finished 8–8 in both the [[2015 NFL season|2015]] and [[2016 NFL season|2016 seasons]] and missed the playoffs in back-to-back seasons for the first time since 1997–98, Grigson was fired as general manager.<ref name="y726">{{cite web | last=Wells | first=Mike | title=Colts fire GM Grigson, keeping Pagano for '17 | website=ESPN.com | date=2017-01-21 | url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/18525693/indianapolis-colts-fire-general-manager-ryan-grigson | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=2015 Indianapolis Colts Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/clt/2015.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=2016 Indianapolis Colts Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/clt/2016.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Just three of his previous 18 draft picks remained on the team at the time of his firing.<ref>{{cite news|last=Wells|first=Mike|title=Colts fire GM Ryan Grigson; Chuck Pagano to remain coach|url=http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/18525693/indianapolis-colts-fire-general-manager-ryan-grigson|publisher=ESPN|date=January 22, 2017|access-date=January 23, 2017|archive-date=January 23, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170123154808/http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/18525693/indianapolis-colts-fire-general-manager-ryan-grigson|url-status=live}}</ref> On January&nbsp;30, 2017, the team hired [[Chris Ballard (American football)|Chris Ballard]], who served as the [[Kansas City Chiefs]] Director of Football Operations, to replace Grigson.<ref name="Holder, Stephen">{{cite news|title=Colts hire Chris Ballard as general manager|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/colts/2017/01/29/chris-ballard-hired-indianapolis-general-manager/97222044/|newspaper=USA Today|author=Holder, Stephen|date=January 29, 2017|access-date=January 30, 2017|archive-date=January 30, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170130075510/http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/colts/2017/01/29/chris-ballard-hired-indianapolis-general-manager/97222044/|url-status=live}}</ref>

On December 31, 2017, after winning the final game of the [[2017 Indianapolis Colts season|season]] and a final record of 4–12, the Colts parted ways with Pagano.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2017 Indianapolis Colts Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/clt/2017.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref name="n547">{{cite web | last=Wells | first=Mike | title=Colts fire coach Pagano after 4-12 season | website=ESPN.com | date=2017-12-31 | url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/21926947/indianapolis-colts-fire-chuck-pagano-six-seasons | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref> Luck, who had suffered multiple injuries and missed nine games during the 2015 season, sat out the entire 2017 season recovering from shoulder surgery.<ref name="v147">{{cite web | last=D'Andrea | first=Christian | title=Andrew Luck headed to injured reserve, will not play in 2017 | website=SBNation.com | date=2017-11-02 | url=https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2017/11/2/16466114/2017-nfl-injury-andrew-luck-injured-reserve | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref>

In the weeks following the end of the 2017 season, after two interviews, it was widely reported that the Colts would hire [[Josh McDaniels]], offensive coordinator of the [[New England Patriots]], to replace Pagano, after McDaniels fulfilled his obligations to the Patriots in [[Super Bowl&nbsp;LII]].<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/01/28/colts-head-coach-news-update-josh-mcdaniels-patriots|title=Report: Colts Will Hire Patriots Offensive Coordinator Josh McDaniels As Head Coach|magazine=Sports Illustrated|first=Khadrice|last=Rollins|date=January 28, 2018|access-date=February 6, 2018|archive-date=February 2, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180202071627/https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/01/28/colts-head-coach-news-update-josh-mcdaniels-patriots|url-status=live}}</ref> On February&nbsp;8, 2018, the Colts announced McDaniels as their new head coach.<ref>{{cite web|first=Mike|last=Wells|url=http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/22344934/indianapolis-colts-hire-josh-mcdaniels-head-coach|title=Colts hire Josh McDaniels as head coach|work=ESPN.com|date=February 6, 2018|access-date=April 29, 2021|archive-date=November 9, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109030207/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/22344934/indianapolis-colts-hire-josh-mcdaniels-head-coach|url-status=live}}</ref> Hours later, however, McDaniels rescinded his decision to be the head coach, and he returned to the Patriots.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.colts.com/news/article-1/Statement-By-The-Indianapolis-Colts-On-Head-Coach-Search/b95ea07d-188d-497c-8510-1ffa73ea6648|title=Statement By The Indianapolis Colts On Head Coach Search|work=Colts.com|date=February 6, 2018|access-date=January 23, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180508191055/http://www.colts.com/news/article-1/Statement-By-The-Indianapolis-Colts-On-Head-Coach-Search/b95ea07d-188d-497c-8510-1ffa73ea6648|archive-date=May 8, 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/22349872/josh-mcdaniels-spurns-indianapolis-colts-remain-new-england-patriots|title=Sources: Josh McDaniels changes mind, will stay with Patriots and not take Colts job|date=February 6, 2018|first=Adam|last=Schefter|access-date=April 29, 2021|archive-date=January 20, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210120234605/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/22349872/josh-mcdaniels-spurns-indianapolis-colts-remain-new-england-patriots|url-status=live}}</ref>

==== Frank Reich years (2018–2022) ====
On February 11, 2018, the Colts announced [[Frank Reich]], then offensive coordinator of the [[Philadelphia Eagles]], as their new head coach.<ref>{{cite press release|title=Press Release: Indianapolis Colts Name Frank Reich Team's New Head Coach|url=https://www.colts.com/news/press-release-indianapolis-colts-name-frank-reich-team-s-new-head-coach-20354743|publisher=NFL Enterprises, LLC|website=Colts.com|date=February 11, 2018|access-date=March 30, 2020|archive-date=September 29, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929023900/https://www.colts.com/news/press-release-indianapolis-colts-name-frank-reich-team-s-new-head-coach-20354743|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Knoblauch|first=Austin|title=Indianapolis Colts hire Frank Reich to be next coach|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/indianapolis-colts-hire-frank-reich-to-be-next-coach-0ap3000000915859|publisher=National Football League|website=NFL.com|date=February 11, 2018|access-date=February 12, 2018|archive-date=February 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180212010105/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000915859/article/indianapolis-colts-hire-frank-reich-to-be-next-coach|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Wells|first=Mike|title=Eagles OC Frank Reich named new Colts coach|url=http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/22401946/frank-reich-agrees-five-year-deal-indianapolis-colts-coach|publisher=ESPN|website=ESPN.com|date=February 11, 2018|access-date=February 11, 2018|archive-date=February 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180212002428/http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/22401946/frank-reich-agrees-five-year-deal-indianapolis-colts-coach|url-status=live}}</ref> In Reich's first season as head coach, Andrew Luck's return to the field got off to a shaky start, as the Colts began the 2018 season 1–5. However, they surged back to win nine of their last ten games to secure a 10–6 record and a playoff berth.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2018 NFL Standings & Team Stats |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2018/index.htm |access-date=2024-07-26 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> They won a wild card game against their division rival [[Houston Texans]] before falling to the [[Kansas City Chiefs]] in the divisional round.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Wild Card – Indianapolis Colts at Houston Texans – January 5th, 2019 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201901050htx.htm |access-date=2024-07-26 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Divisional Round – Indianapolis Colts at Kansas City Chiefs – January 12th, 2019 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201901120kan.htm |access-date=2024-07-26 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Luck, benefiting from the Colts' best offensive line of his career, was named the 2018 Comeback Player of the Year.<ref>{{cite web | last=Wesseling | first=Chris | title=Andrew Luck named AP Comeback Player of the Year | website=NFL.com | date=2019-02-02 | url=https://www.nfl.com/news/andrew-luck-named-ap-comeback-player-of-the-year-0ap3000001015474 | access-date=2024-07-26}}</ref>

Colts General Manager Chris Ballard achieved a historic feat in 2018 when two players he had drafted that year, guard [[Quenton Nelson]] and linebacker [[Shaquille Leonard]] were both named First-Team All-Pro.<ref name="o831">{{cite web | last=Walker | first=Andrew | title=Darius Leonard, Quenton Nelson Named First-Team All-Pro | website=Colts.com | date=2019-01-04 | url=https://www.colts.com/news/darius-leonard-quenton-nelson-named-first-team-all-pro | access-date=2024-08-18}}</ref> This was the first time two rookies from the same team received that honor since Hall-of-Famers [[Dick Butkus]] and [[Gale Sayers]] achieved the feat in 1965.<ref>{{cite news|last=Hickey|first=Kevin|title=Colts' Darius Leonard, Quenton Nelson named first-team All-Pros|url=https://coltswire.usatoday.com/2019/01/04/indianapolis-colts-darius-leonard-quenton-nelson-all-pro-first-team/|publisher=USA TODAY|website=ColtsWire|date=January 4, 2019|access-date=May 18, 2020|archive-date=August 4, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804055159/https://coltswire.usatoday.com/2019/01/04/indianapolis-colts-darius-leonard-quenton-nelson-all-pro-first-team/|url-status=live}}</ref>

On August&nbsp;24, 2019, Luck informed the Colts that he would be retiring from the NFL after not attending training camp. He cited an unfulfilling cycle of injury and rehab as his primary reason for leaving football.<ref>{{cite news|last=Patra|first=Kevin|title=Colts QB Andrew Luck announces his retirement|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/colts-qb-andrew-luck-announces-his-retirement-0ap3000001044124|publisher=NFL Enterprises, LLC|website=NFL.com|date=August 24, 2019|access-date=October 27, 2019|archive-date=October 26, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191026193139/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001044124/article/colts-qb-andrew-luck-announces-his-retirement|url-status=live}}</ref>

On November&nbsp;17, 2019, the Colts defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars for the team's 300th win in the Indianapolis era, with a record of 300–267.<ref>{{cite news|title=By The Numbers: Colts 33, Jaguars 13|url=https://www.colts.com/news/by-the-numbers-jacksonville-jaguars-2019-week-11?campaign=sf:fanshare:facebook|publisher=NFL Enterprises, LLC|website=Colts.com|date=November 17, 2019|language=en-US|access-date=December 20, 2019|archive-date=September 12, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200912214118/https://www.colts.com/news/by-the-numbers-jacksonville-jaguars-2019-week-11?campaign=sf:fanshare:facebook|url-status=live}}</ref> Despite a promising 5–2 start and strong seasons from Leonard, Nelson, and newly acquired defensive end [[Justin Houston]], the Colts struggled in the second half of the 2019 season with new starting quarterback [[Jacoby Brissett]] at the helm and finished the year with a 7–9 record.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2019 Indianapolis Colts Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/clt/2019.htm |access-date=2024-07-26 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

On March&nbsp;17, 2020, the Colts signed longtime [[Los&nbsp;Angeles Chargers]] quarterback and eight-time Pro Bowler [[Philip Rivers]] to a one-year deal worth $25&nbsp;million.<ref>{{cite news|last=Shook|first=Nick|title=Philip Rivers agrees to one-year, $25M deal with Colts|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/philip-rivers-agrees-to-one-year-25m-deal-with-colts-0ap3000001106687|publisher=NFL Enterprises, LLC|website=NFL.com|date=March 17, 2020|access-date=May 18, 2020|archive-date=May 17, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200517055121/https://www.nfl.com/news/philip-rivers-agrees-to-one-year-25m-deal-with-colts-0ap3000001106687|url-status=live}}</ref> Rivers led the Colts to an 11–5 record and a playoff berth, where they then lost to the Buffalo Bills in the Wild Card Round of the NFL's first expanded playoffs.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2020 Indianapolis Colts Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees, Injury Reports |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/clt/2020.htm |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref name="w820">{{cite magazine | last=Wilson | first=Phillip B. | title=Bills Oust Colts From Playoffs | magazine=Sports Illustrated | date=2021-01-09 | url=https://www.si.com/nfl/colts/gameday/bills-oust-colts-from-playoffs | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref>

On March&nbsp;17, 2021, the Colts traded a 2021 third-round pick and a 2022 second-round conditional pick for former Eagles quarterback [[Carson Wentz]].<ref name="z321">{{cite web | last=Patra | first=Kevin | title=Eagles agree to trade QB Carson Wentz to Colts for two draft picks | website=NFL.com | date=2021-02-18 | url=https://www.nfl.com/news/carson-wentz-trade-philadelphia-eagles-indianapolis-colts | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref> Despite an All-Pro season from running back [[Jonathan Taylor (American football)|Jonathan Taylor]], the Colts finished the season 9–8 after an upset loss to the [[Jacksonville Jaguars]] that eliminated the Colts from playoff contention.<ref name="g887">{{cite web | last=Bergman | first=Jeremy | title=Colts eliminated from playoff contention following shocking loss to Jaguars | website=NFL.com | date=2022-01-09 | url=https://www.nfl.com/news/colts-eliminated-from-playoff-contention-following-shocking-loss-to-jaguars | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref> The Colts then traded Wentz and a second round pick to the [[Washington Commanders]] in exchange for three draft picks.<ref name="y596">{{cite web | last=Keim | first=John | title=Wentz: Important to be 'wanted' by Commanders | website=ESPN.com | date=2022-03-17 | url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/33527889/carson-wentz-surprised-trade-happy-wanted-washington-commanders | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref>

On March&nbsp;21, 2022, the Colts traded a 2022 third-round pick for longtime Atlanta Falcons quarterback [[Matt Ryan (American Football)|Matt Ryan]].<ref name="z410">{{cite web | last=Rothstein | first=Michael | title=Falcons trade Ryan to Colts, get deal with Mariota | website=ESPN.com | date=2022-03-21 | url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/33564735/sources-indianapolis-colts-acquire-qb-matt-ryan-atlanta-falcons-third-round-pick | access-date=2024-07-30}}</ref> After playing seven games in which he threw for nine touchdowns and nine interceptions, while also fumbling 11 times, Ryan was benched for the remainder of the season in favor of [[Sam Ehlinger]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Keefer |first=Zak |date=October 24, 2022 |title=Weeks in the making: Behind the Colts' decision to bench Matt Ryan for Sam Ehlinger |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/3726506/2022/10/24/matt-ryan-sam-ehlinger-colts-decision/ |access-date=2024-07-30 |website=The New York Times |language=en-US}}</ref>

On November&nbsp;7, 2022, the Colts fired Reich as head coach the day after losing by 23&nbsp;points to the [[New&nbsp;England Patriots]] to continue a disappointing 3–5–1 start. Longtime Colts center [[Jeff Saturday]] was subsequently named the interim head coach.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holder |first=Stephen |date=November 7, 2022 |title=Colts fire coach Reich, name Saturday interim |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/34971861/sources-frank-reich-coach-stumbling-colts |access-date=November 7, 2022 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}</ref> Under Saturday, the Colts went 1–7, and overall, the Colts finished the [[2022 NFL season|2022 season]] with a record of 4–12–1, their lowest win total since 2017.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Erickson|first=Joel|date=January 8, 2023 |title=Insider: Dismal Colts season ends in appropriate fashion with 32–31 loss to woeful Texans|url=https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nfl/colts/2023/01/08/colts-vs-texans-indianapolis-season-ends-appropriately-with-dismal-loss/69770244007/|access-date=February 23, 2024 |website=indystar.com}}</ref>

==== Shane Steichen years (2023–present) ====
Coming off their lowest win total since 2017, the Colts decided not to retain interim head coach [[Jeff Saturday]] and on February&nbsp;14, 2023, they hired [[Shane Steichen]] as their new head coach.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stankevitz |first=JJ |date=February 14, 2023 |title=Colts Name Philadelphia Eagles Offensive Coordinator Shane Steichen As Head Coach |url=https://www.colts.com/news/shane-steichen-head-coach-eagles-offensive-coordinator-jalen-hurts-philip-rivers |access-date=February 23, 2024 |website=Colts.com}}</ref> Later in the offseason, the Colts released quarterbacks [[Matt Ryan (American football)|Matt Ryan]] and [[Nick Foles]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stankevitz |first=JJ |date=March 15, 2023 |title=Colts release QB Matt Ryan|url=https://www.colts.com/news/matt-ryan-released-quarterback-2023-nfl-free-agency-falcons|access-date=February 23, 2024 |website=Colts.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 5, 2023 |title=Colts release QB Nick Foles |url=https://www.colts.com/news/nick-foles-release-quarterback-roster-moves-transactions |access-date=February 23, 2024 |website=Colts.com}}</ref> The Colts would go on to select [[Florida Gators football|Florida Gators]] quarterback [[Anthony Richardson (American football)|Anthony Richardson]] with the fourth pick in the [[2023 NFL draft]].<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Arthur |first=Jake |date=April 27, 2023 |title=Colts Draft Anthony Richardson, Get Their New Face of the Franchise |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/colts/news/colts-draft-anthony-richardson-2023-nfl-draft |magazine=Sports Illustrated |access-date=April 28, 2023}}</ref> In free agency, the Colts signed quarterback [[Gardner Minshew]] and kicker [[Matt Gay]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stankevitz |first=JJ |date=March 17, 2023 |title=Colts sign free agent QB Gardner Minshew|url=https://www.colts.com/news/gardner-minshew-signs-signed-free-agent-quarterback-eagles-jaguars|access-date=February 23, 2024 |website=Colts.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Stankevitz |first=JJ |date=March 17, 2023 |title=Colts sign free agent K Matt Gay|url=https://www.colts.com/news/matt-gay-free-agent-kicker-signed-los-angeles-rams-2021-pro-bowl#:~:text=The%20Colts%20on%20Friday%20signed,Pro%20Bowl%20honors%20in%202021.|access-date=February 23, 2024 |website=Colts.com}}</ref>

On October&nbsp;18, 2023, the Colts announced that Richardson would miss the remainder of the season with a Grade&nbsp;3 AC joint sprain. On October&nbsp;24, 2023, he successfully underwent shoulder surgery to repair the sprain. Backup quarterback Minshew was named by Steichen as the starter during Richardson's absence.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holder |first=Stephen |date=October 18, 2023 |title=Colts' Anthony Richardson to have season-ending shoulder surgery |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/38687404/colts-anthony-richardson-season-ending-shoulder-surgery |access-date=February 23, 2024 |publisher=ESPN}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Stankevitz |first=JJ |date=October 25, 2023 |title=Colts QB Anthony Richardson undergoes successful shoulder surgery |url=https://www.colts.com/news/anthony-richardson-successful-shoulder-surgery-update-shane-steichen |access-date=February 23, 2024 |website=Indianapolis Colts}}</ref> During the [[2023 NFL season]], wide receiver [[Michael Pittman Jr.]] broke the Colts franchise record for the most receptions in the first four years of a player's career.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Patra |first=Kevin |date=December 5, 2023 |title=Colts WR Michael Pittman Jr. passes Marvin Harrison in franchise record books |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/colts-wr-michael-pittman-jr-passes-marvin-harrison-in-franchise-record-books |access-date=February 23, 2024 |website=[[NFL.com]]}}</ref> Despite many injuries, including to Richardson and All-Pro running back [[Jonathan Taylor (American football)|Jonathan Taylor]], the 2023 Colts rebounded from their 4–12–1 record in 2022, finishing 9–8 and narrowly missing the playoffs with a loss to the [[Houston Texans]] in the season finale.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://fox59.com/sports/colts/indianapolis-colts-drop-season-finale-to-houston-texans-narrowly-miss-out-on-postseason/|title=Indianapolis Colts drop season finale to Houston Texans, narrowly miss out on postseason|last=Hanson|first=Austin|website=fox59.com|date=January 8, 2024 |access-date=February 23, 2024}}</ref> In 2024, On April&nbsp;25, 2024, the Colts selected UCLA defensive end [[Laiatu Latu]] with the 15th pick in the [[2024 NFL draft]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stankevitz |first=JJ |date=April 25, 2024 |title=Colts select UCLA defensive end Laiatu Latu with No. 15 overall pick in 2024 NFL Draft |url=https://www.colts.com/news/laiatu-latu-2024-nfl-draft-pick-defensive-end-sacks-pressures-edge-rusher |access-date=April 26, 2024 |website=Colts.com}}</ref> In 2024, the Colts failed to improve on their 9–8 record and were eliminated from the playoffs by a week 17 loss to the [[New York Giants]], finishing 8–9.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=2024-12-29 |title=Giants topple Colts 45-33 to eliminate Indy from the playoff race |url=https://apnews.com/article/colts-giants-score-abd039a61e37fd23146c1871c0929a30 |access-date=2025-02-16 |website=AP News |language=en}}</ref>

On May 21, 2025, Colts owner and CEO Jim Irsay died at the age of 65.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Holder |first=Stephen |date=May 21, 2025 |title=Colts owner and CEO Jim Irsay dies at 65 |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45259729/indianapolis-colts-owner-ceo-jim-irsay-dies-65 |access-date=May 21, 2025 |website=[[ESPN]] |language=en}}</ref> His three children, all daughters, each have leadership roles and some ownership of the team.<ref>"Vice Chairs/Owners," ''Scout,'' vol. 16, no. 9 (Dec. 31, 2023), p. 11.</ref>