Irsay: It was 'very obvious' Colts had to move on from Wentz

Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay said Tuesday it was "very obvious" the team had to get rid of quarterback Carson Wentz after just one season.

"I think the worst thing you can do is have a mistake and try to keep living with it going forward," Irsay said, according to Joel A. Erickson of the Indianapolis Star. "For us, it was something we had to move away from as a franchise."

The Colts traded first- and third-round picks for Wentz last offseason after he fell out with the Philadelphia Eagles. Indianapolis shipped the former No. 2 pick to the Washington Commanders on March 16 and took a net loss on the compensation.

While Wentz posted solid numbers for the Colts, the club reportedly grew frustrated with his lack of leadership and reckless playing style. The 29-year-old drew similar criticisms in Philadelphia.

"In having conversations with trusted veterans on the team … in confidence, oftentimes they share really what's happening," Irsay said. "What I found out was very concerning."

Indianapolis acquired Matt Ryan from the Atlanta Falcons to fill its quarterback void after moving Wentz. The Colts missed the playoffs last year after making it in 2020 with Philip Rivers as their quarterback.

Wentz downplayed reports that he's been difficult to work with in the past.

"I strongly feel I had amazing relationships with people in Philly and in Indy," he said at his introductory press conference with Washington.