Colts' Ryan: Benching is disappointing, but 'I'm here for the team'

The Indianapolis Colts decided to bench quarterback Matt Ryan for Sam Ehlinger on Monday, leaving the longtime veteran displeased with how things have played out through seven games.

"Obviously disappointed personally, but I'm here for the team," Ryan said when asked about being benched, 1075 The Fan's Kevin Bowne reports. "Life in this league is week-to-week, and the production has to be there."

Ryan led the Colts to a 3-3-1 start while throwing for 2,008 yards, nine touchdowns, and nine interceptions, ranking 30th in points per game.

The 37-year-old has garnered respect in the Colts' locker room since arriving in Indianapolis, including from center Ryan Kelly.

"Love the guy. I’ve said this shit eight times now: I get close with all these guys. Sucks man. It is what it is," Kelly said, according to The Athletic's Zak Keefer.

"I think everybody’s got their own opinions about it," Kelly added about the benching. "I’m not gonna get into mine, but yeah, certainly, I think there's a little bit of surprise."

Head coach Frank Reich said the team plans to start Ehlinger for the rest of the season, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

"I love Sam. He’s been awesome since the day I got here. My job shifts now. I gotta do everything I can to help him. He’s gonna do great for us," Ryan said on Ehlinger, according to Keefer.

Reich said choosing to go with Ehlinger over Nick Foles was best for the team, reports Fox59's Mike Chappell.

Ehlinger was the Colts' sixth-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. He has yet to throw a pass in the NFL.