Colts' Ballard, Steichen Share Thoughts On Free-Agent Signings

Ballard:

Signing Michael Pittman Jr. to a long-term contract was the goal and I’m thankful for his agent, Andrew Kessler, in helping to get a deal done. Pitt is a fierce competitor, and he cares deeply about winning. He wants to be a difference maker and he’s going to give you everything he’s got on Sundays to accomplish that. We want the work ethic and attitude Pitt brings in all of our players. He absolutely deserves this deal and I’m thrilled he’s going to remain a Colt.

Steichen:

We love everything about Pitt. You know what you’re going to get every week - an ultimate competitor, a playmaker and a leader in the locker room. He gives this team the same passion and energy on the practice field and in the meeting rooms on a consistent basis. I’m excited Pitt will continue to play a significant role in our offense and I’m very happy for him and his family.

Ballard:

Kenny is a special player and has earned everything he’s worked for. He has always embraced the underdog role and has played the game with a chip on his shoulder. Kenny is a smart and savvy veteran who is vital to the continued growth of our young secondary. I’m proud of him and the player he has become.

Steichen:

Kenny’s preparation, work ethic and communication are vital to the backend of our defense. I appreciate his tenacity and the scrappiness in which he plays the game. As a team captain, Kenny has the upmost respect of our entire team and we value his leadership.

Ballard:

Back to the pre-draft evaluation of Zaire, we knew he was a great player and an even better person. The relentless preparation and effort that he puts into his game is unique. To see his steady improvement as a player over the last six years has been rewarding and I know he has more milestones to accomplish in his career. He deserves this and I’m happy for Zaire and his family. The Colts and the city of Indianapolis are better with Zaire Franklin and the servant leader that he is.

Steichen:

Zaire has worked hard to achieve everything in his career and I’m excited for him and his family on this well-deserved contract. I respect Zaire for his football acumen and even more so for his character. He has the respect of everyone in our locker room as evidenced by him being selected by his teammates as a captain and our nominee for the 2023 NFL Walter Payton Man of The Year award.

Ballard:

Grover brings tremendous value to our team, and it was important that he remained in Indy. Coming from a small school HBCU in Albany State, his growth into an eight-year NFL professional has been exceptional. Grover is a difference maker on our defensive line and we’re excited to see the continued impact he will make moving forward.

Steichen:

The disruptiveness that Grover causes on the field, especially in the run game, is rare and pivotal to the success of our defense. The physicality he plays with in the trenches sets the tone. It was important that we kept Grover here and I’m confident he will continue to develop as the years progress.

Ballard:

I’m thankful for Tyquan and his commitment to the Colts. He has dealt with a lot of adversity in his career, but his character and dedication to this game have allowed him to persevere. I’m thrilled to keep him in Indianapolis.

Steichen:

Tyquan is the ultimate team player. His versatility along the defensive line is an asset for us. Last season, you saw Tyquan develop more comfort and confidence as the year progressed. I’m excited to watch his continued growth.

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