Indianapolis Colts coach Shane Steichen said quarterback Daniel Jones would keep his starting job after the Colts lost to the Tennessee Titans on Sunday. The defeat came against a Titans team described in the source as previously winless and prompted questions about both Jones’ performance and the status of Indianapolis’ leadership.
Jones threw two interceptions in the game, bringing his season total to six through six games. He has thrown at least one interception in each of the Colts’ last four games. Steichen said Jones understood that he needed to improve, while also taking responsibility for his own work as coach.
“I think Daniel knows he’s got to play better,” Steichen said. “I got to coach better.”
The Colts have lost four of their first six games, including two of three played at home. Fans booed during Sunday’s game, and “fire Ballard” chants were heard by the end. The source identifies Chris Ballard as the team’s general manager.
Steichen said he understood the crowd’s reaction. “We’ve got to give them something to cheer about, you know?” he said. “I don’t blame them for booing one freaking bit.” Asked about his own job, he said his focus was preparing the team.
The report points to owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon’s public comments after the Colts’ 2025 season, which ended with seven consecutive losses. She said at the time that she was angry and that the organization had made clear to Steichen and Ballard that expectations were higher after they were given another opportunity. Irsay-Gordon said the team needed to win games, reach the postseason and pursue championships.
The source characterizes the coach’s and general manager’s positions as uncertain if the team does not improve, but does not report that either has been dismissed or that a decision has been announced. Steichen’s comments addressed his immediate focus and Jones’ status; they did not settle questions about the organization’s longer-term plans.
The loss to Tennessee intensified scrutiny of the Colts, with the home crowd’s reaction underscoring the frustration described in the report. For now, Steichen has said Jones will not be benched, while the coach has acknowledged the need for better performance from both the quarterback and himself.
