There’s plenty of intrigue about what’s going to happen at the 2023 NFL Draft, especially when it comes to quarterbacks. However, Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay may have just tipped his hand about the franchise’s plans.
Speaking at a press conference to introduce new head coach Shane Steichen, the Colts owner was discussing their process for finding their new leader, part of which was because they plan on having a young quarterback on their roster.
Per SI’s Albert Breer, Irsay said that the Colts’ hiring process had a focus on offensive coordinators “knowing that we’re going to have to find a young quarterback to develop is a key factor.” Breer added that “GM Chris Ballard’s head whipped around as he said it.”
As if that wasn’t clear enough, while discussing the upcoming draft, Irsay added “The Alabama guy doesn’t look bad, I’ll tell ya,” referring to highly touted quarterback Bryce Young, who many expect to be the No. 1 or No. 2 pick.
Looks like #Colts owner Jim Irsay let the cat out of the bag about the #Colts Draft plans.
"The Alabama guy doesn't look bad, I'll tell ya."
The Colts currently pick at number 4. May need to move up if they want Bryce Young. pic.twitter.com/hY93tvznKk
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) February 14, 2023
While it’s not a huge surprise that the Colts would want to draft a quarterback this year, given all of the issues they’ve had in recent seasons. But by giving away the game, they could potentially lose leverage with the Chicago Bears, who hold the top pick in the draft. The Bears are presumably looking to trade that pick because they already have Justin Fields and the knowledge that Indianapolis is desperate to draft Young could mean Chicago will try to squeeze them for as much as they can get.
Jim Irsay is just letting it all out, not hiding anything: "The Alabama guy doesn't look bad, I'll tell ya."
He's talking about Bryce Young, obviously.
This is amazing. Colts would likely need to trade up and Irsay is openly saying it all. https://t.co/rdKwlJiCd8
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) February 14, 2023
Not the smartest strategy by Jim Irsay. Good luck with that, Chris Ballard.
About Sean Keeley
Along with writing for Awful Announcing and The Comeback, Sean is the Managing Editor for Comeback Media. Previously, he created the Syracuse blog Troy Nunes Is An Absolute Magician and wrote 'How To Grow An Orange: The Right Way to Brainwash Your Child Into Rooting for Syracuse.' He has also written non-Syracuse-related things for SB Nation, Curbed, and other outlets. He currently lives in Seattle where he is complaining about bagels. Send tips/comments/complaints to sean@thecomeback.com.