Shane Steichen finds himself on the hot seat in Indy as the Colts staggered to a 2-4 start.
Indianapolis’ latest shortcoming – a 26-20 defeat to the Titans – cost general manager Chris Ballard his job. Entering Week 7, the Colts have dropped two games in a row.
Owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon voiced concern for the results in the Ballard announcement. Now, the team heads into a stretch playing the Vikings, Jaguars and Cowboys.
If the Colts continue to spiral, it would presumably cost Steichen his job. Here are two potential replacement candidates for the Colts head coach.
NFL Hot Seat: 2 Potential Replacements for Shane Steichen
Drew Petzing, Detroit Lions Offensive Coordinator
I view the Colts as a mini version of a better Lions offense. The unit is structured around a strong rushing attack with good weapons around the edges.
Petzing, in his first season as Lions offensive coordinator, guided the unit to a strong start. Entering Week 7, Detroit ranks 11th in offensive DVOA, including second on the ground.
Petzing previously established himself as a good run-game specialist.
Over three years as the Cardinals’ offensive coordinator, he led a unit that ranked second in yards per attempt twice.
He would take over a Colts offense that ranked eighth in rush DVOA through six games. It could make for a natural pairing between the organization and Petzing.
Aden Durde, Seattle Seahawks Defensive Coordinator
A path exists for the Colts hiring a defensive-minded head coach. In Durde, they’d acquire a Mike Macdonald disciple with a strong defensive background.
During Seattle’s run to a Super Bowl victory, the defense paced the NFL in defensive DVOA. So far in 2026, the unit ranks second in the category.
Chief amongst the contrasts between Seattle and Indy? Each team’s ability to stop the run.
Seattle ranks second in rush defense DVOA entering Week 7, whereas the Colts rank 31st. Granted, most of the negative performances came against good units.
But it’s undoubtedly a unit that needs improvement. So far in 2026, Indianapolis graded as an above-average defense against only Houston – without Nico Collins – and Tennessee.
Durde could bring some creative ideas to a unit that has consistently allowed teams to move the ball since pivoting to Lou Anarumo.
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