​INDIANAPOLIS — For the first time in a decade, the Colts are looking for a new general manager.Carlie Irsay-Gordon fired general manager Chris Ballard on Monday after nine-plus seasons, a 72-82-1 record and only two playoff berths, making the move that has been speculated ever since the team’s utter collapse in 2022.Irsay-Gordon plans to start searching for the franchise’s next architect soon. “Making this change during the season was a deliberate decision,” Irsay-Gordon wrote. “Waiting would only delay the important work that needs to begin now. We will conduct a thorough search for our next general manager and take the time necessary to identify the right leader for the future of this organization. Identifying a list of potential replacements at general manager is difficult, but here’s a list of potential candidates. Ray Agnew, Lions assistant GMHe’s had experience at every level of football: player, team pastor, player development director and pro scouting director. Detroit’s rise during his tenure and that background should make him an excellent candidate but he’s also 58, which may worry some teams. Agnew was a candidate for Minnesota’s open general manager job in 2026. Tariq Ahmad, 49ers vice president player personnelAhmad has been a 49ers executive since 2021, previously serving as a scout for the team. He was an offensive lineman at Division Ithaca College, became and assistant with the program then went to Rutgers before joining the 49ers. Miami requested an interview with Ahmad last season for their general manager position.Chad Alexander, Chargers assistant GMAlexander started in the highly regarded Baltimore Ravens front office before moving to the Jets and, now, the Chargers. Los Angeles was successful despite injuries last season, an issue for the Colts under Ballard, but this season could sour his candidacy a bit. Alexander was a candidate for both Miami and Minnesota’s general manager jobs in 2026, after being a candidate in Las Vegas in 2025. Mark Azevedo, Ravens director of player personnelThe Ravens are known for producing successful NFL executives and Azevedo has experience on the college and pro sides there. He was recently bumped up to director of player personnel, putting him closer to the decision-making process, providing necessary experience to become a GM.Adam Berry, Eagles assistant GMBerry is in his fourth season with the Eagles, first as assistant general manager after previously serving as vicepresident of football operations and strategy. He joined the Eagles from a 14-year career at Goldman Sachs, where he was serving as managing director and head of U.S. loan trading.Matt Berry, Seahawks assistant GMJohn Schneider has had a long, successful run in Seattle and Berry was already with the organization when Schneider was hired. Berry previously served as college scouting director and has added duties on the pro side with his recent promotion. He interviewed in Tennessee last season and was promoted to his current