News - Colts GM Considers NFL Rookies Returning to College as 'Absurd'

At a recent press conference, Indianapolis Colts General Manager Chris Ballard did not mince words when addressing the prospect of NFL rookies opting to return to college. 'No! It's the stupidest thing I've ever heard! Your entire life, you fight to get up to the NFL, but now you're going to go back? Okay, that makes a lot of freaking sense,' he declared. This strong statement came amidst an already tense conference due to controversies surrounding wide receiver Keenan Allen and ongoing legal issues. Ballard's response, though wrapped in humor, was underlined with genuine disbelief and frustration at the idea of NFL players relinquishing their professional status to regain college eligibility. This notion stands at odds with the dreams and goals of many athletes who strive to play in the NFL. Thankfully for Ballard, the topic remains hypothetical within the Colts organization as no current draftees or training camp members have expressed an interest in returning to college football. As the sporting world watches an upcoming SEC-LSU hearing, which might influence rules on college eligibility for former NFL players, Ballard made it clear that such a precedent would be unwelcome in his franchise. His candid remarks reinforce his firm stance against such a move and signal what would likely be a decisive policy stance for the Indianapolis Colts.