-
Stephen HolderESPN
INDIANAPOLIS Colts Jim Irsay, owner of Indianapolis’ former offensive lineman Jeff Saturday, vigorously defended Monday night’s shocking decision to hire him as the interim head coach. He stated that Jeff Saturday was “fully capable” and that he is experienced enough.
Following late-night talks with Chris Ballard on Sunday, Frank Reich was fired by Irsay on Monday morning. Shortly thereafter, the team announced Saturday’s hiring as an ESPN analyst. Saturday is the first person to have coaching experience beyond high school.
Monday night’s conversation was a long one. Irsay talked about Saturday’s toughness with the Colts during 13 seasons. He made five Pro Bowls.
“Want a bet against this guy?” Irsay exclaimed. “Put all your money down. [I’d] It is a pleasure to see, as I know his thoughts.
Irsay acknowledged that Reich’s decision to fire him was difficult, but he attributed it in part to the fact that he felt it was time, based on his extensive experience as an NFL owner of second-generation.
Irsay said, “There is no rule book that will tell you to make a change. It comes from having been in the league 52 year. It’s intuitive.”
Irsay indicated that the intention is to continue with Saturday for the final eight games in the regular season. The Colts will then conduct a formal coach search. Irsay stated that he would prefer Saturday to be offered the permanent job.
He stated, “This is for 8 games, hopefully more.”
Irsay was asked if the team would truly conduct a fair coaching search in compliance with the Rooney Rule. This rule requires that NFL teams interview at most two candidates from outside minorities before making a decision on a head coach hire.
He responded with adamantness, declaring that there would be an open search.
Irsay quickly disregarded any notions of Ballard’s fate and resigned as GM for sixth year.
Irsay declared, “There is no doubt about it.” “Honestly, it is not in my conscious mind. … He is a winner, and he has been hugely successful.”
Ballard stated that the Colts had tried to hire Saturday as an offensive line coach in 2019. He also approached him earlier in the year. He declined to join the team, but Saturday has shown interest in the franchise for many years. Saturday has also been a consultant for Colts teams and is very close to Irsay.
Saturday, who was not drafted, looked back at his inexperience.
“Here is a great part of my profession,” he stated. “I came in, nobody expected anything. I’m here. Nobody can expect anything. I hope it goes extremely well. However, I don’t have any preconceived notions that I will be anything extraordinary.
Saturday will be his first game against the opponent on Sunday. Las Vegas Raiders. He said that although he hadn’t yet decided on his offensive play calling team, he was close to making a decision Monday afternoon. Sam Ehlinger He will remain the starting quarterback until Saturday.