The Indianapolis Colts fired their head coach Frank Reich today. After a slow start to the season, the Colts are moving on from Reich. Normally, the offensive or defensive coordinator steps in but not in this case. Former Packers lineman Jeff Saturday was named the Colts’ interim head coach.
Former Packer Jeff Saturday Named Colts Interim Head Coach
We have named Jeff Saturday interim head coach. pic.twitter.com/GetJtD9yAr
— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) November 7, 2022
The Colts are trying something new. Jeff Saturday does not have any previous coaching experience and is probably best-known post-NFL for his appearances on ESPN. He spent 13 years with the Colts before spending his final season with the Packers in 2012. During his NFL tenure, he was named to the Pro Bowl six times and First Team All-Pro twice. His season with the Packers had its ups and downs but he was still named to the Pro Bowl that year.
Curious Move By The Colts
I’m curious about what the Colts are thinking here. If they are trying to salvage the season, picking an inexperienced coach probably wasn’t the best option. Saturday is a well-liked and respected person among many players. It may be that they are hoping to build the spirits of the fans and players by bringing in someone so popular. Even though he only spent one year with the Packers, he was still an immensely popular player. The interim position is also low risk. If Saturday is terrible, there is no long-term contract and moving on from him is easy.
It will be interesting to see how former Packer Jeff Saturday does as the interim coach of the Colts. The Colts are not out of the AFC South race and it would be a great story if he were to somehow lead them to the playoffs. It will be something to watch in the back half of the season.
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