Colts hire Chris Ballard as general manager

The Indianapolis Colts hired Chris Ballard as their new general manager Sunday.

Ballard previously served as the director of football operations for the Kansas City Chiefs.

"I am so thankful to Mr. Irsay and his entire family for this opportunity to join the Colts organization," Ballard said in a statement. "I appreciate everyone who has been involved in the search process. I look forward to working with Chuck and his staff, the personnel staff, and all the outstanding Colts employees. My wife Kristen and our children cannot wait to get to Indianapolis and become active members of the community."

During Ballard's four years with the Chiefs, the team posted a winning record in every season.

"I am extremely excited to welcome Chris Ballard as our general manager," Colts owner Jim Irsay said. "Chris has a solid reputation throughout the National Football League as a heavyweight executive and our extensive discussions with him confirmed that reputation. He's a savvy, organized, and thorough talent evaluator, but beyond that, he's a terrific person our community will be proud of."

The Colts fired general manager Ryan Grigson on Jan. 21, after spending five seasons with the club.

Indianapolis also interviewed Minnesota's assistant general manager, George Paton, and Green Bay's director of football operations, Eliot Wolf, for the job.

"I am extremely excited about Chris coming on as our general manager," Colts head coach Chuck Pagano said. "He brings a wealth of knowledge and a ton of experience to the organization. I'm looking forward to rolling up our sleeves and going to work alongside him."

Ballard was interviewed twice by the Colts before receiving the job.