As mentioned Colts began their journey in Baltimore, Maryland, where they were established in 1953. Their inclusion in the NFL marked a growing expansion of the league. Under the ownership of Carroll Rosenbloom, the team rapidly developed a competitive edge, largely thanks to the legendary quarterback Johnny Unitas. This period saw the Colts clinch their first NFL Championship in 1958 in what was dubbed “The Greatest Game Ever Played,” defeating the New York Giants. The team replicated their success in 1959, affirming their place in the league.
The Colts’ ownership landscape changed dramatically in 1972 when Robert Irsay acquired the team. This transition marked the beginning of the Irsay family’s influence over the franchise. Under Irsay’s ownership, the team continued to experience success, highlighted by their victory in Super Bowl V in 1971 against the Dallas Cowboys. In 1984, in a move that sent shockwaves through the NFL, Irsay relocated the team to Indianapolis. With Mayflower moving trucks quietly making the controversial move in the middle of the night, a devastated Baltimore awoke to see a new era for the Colts and the end of football in Charm City for over a decade. Heartbroken fans have long struggled to accept the new Colts as an extension of the original team, and even with the success of the Baltimore Ravens, the Colts remain a sore spot for the city to date.
Post-Manning, the Colts have seen a mix of challenges and successes. The drafting of Andrew Luck in 2012 brought a new era of competitive play, with several playoff appearances. However, Luck would eventually announce an early retirement. His successors, including Carson Wentz and Matt Ryan, failed to move the chains for the team, but in 2023, the team drafted University of Florida star quarterback Anthony Richardson with high hopes. Though his season ended early due to injury, backup Gardner Minshew still helped lead the team into playoff contention, but they failed to make it to the postseason after losing to the Texans in the final regular season game. Richardson’s strong arm and excellent mobility still have fans excited for the coming years.
Leave a Reply