Pat McAfee has unleashed a fiery critique of the Indianapolis Colts as they head into their regular-season finale this Sunday. The former Colts punter, known for his candid takes, has not held back after the team suffered a crushing defeat to the New York Giants, officially knocking them out of playoff contention.
Colts’ Disastrous Loss to Giants
In a stunning turn of events, the Colts fell to the 3-13 Giants with a score of 45-33 in Week 17. This loss dropped their record to 7-9, marking yet another disappointing season for a franchise that once boasted a rich history of success. Indianapolis allowed four touchdown passes from quarterback Drew Lock, leading to a barrage of criticism from fans and analysts alike.
McAfee’s Call for a Complete Overhaul
On his self-titled ESPN show, McAfee didn’t mince words. He asserted that the Colts need a complete rebuild, suggesting that only five players should remain on the roster. "How do you get rid of this entire roster except for [Michael] Pittman?" he exclaimed. He went on to emphasize the need for change, stating, "Other than [those players], see ya! Every one of them. Goodbye. Take a hike."
This passionate outburst reflects the frustration of many Colts fans who have witnessed the team’s decline. McAfee even suggested trading star running back Jonathan Taylor, saying, "Thanks for coming. Trade his f***g a out of town. … You got a second-round pick? Sweet. We’ll do this for the good of the program."
Frustration and Accountability
McAfee’s tirade comes after he publicly criticized the Colts on social media following their loss. He expressed his disappointment with the organization and even announced he would not renew his season tickets. The former Pro Bowler’s sentiments resonate with many who feel that the team’s lack of discipline has contributed to their struggles.
Rumors have circulated about players being late for mandatory meetings, which further fueled McAfee’s ire. Head coach Shane Steichen responded to these claims, stating, "I think with any team, not everyone’s gonna be on time every time. But there is accountability, and guys are held to a standard. That is talked about in-house." Steichen acknowledged McAfee’s frustration, noting that it stems from the Colts’ failure to make the playoffs for the fourth consecutive year.
Looking Ahead: The Final Game
As the Colts prepare to face the Jacksonville Jaguars in their last game of the regular season, the atmosphere is charged with uncertainty. The team has faced intense scrutiny throughout the year, particularly regarding the management of second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson. Steichen’s decision to bench Richardson earlier in the season raised eyebrows, especially after he reinstated him just three games later. Richardson’s struggles have been evident, completing only 47.7 percent of his passes in 2024, a historically low rate.
McAfee’s Legacy and Passion for the Game
Pat McAfee, a two-time Pro Bowler with the Colts from 2009 to 2016, remains a passionate advocate for his former team. He continues to live in Indianapolis, where he records daily episodes of his popular ESPN program. His deep connection to the city and the team fuels his desire to see the Colts return to their former glory.
In the world of the NFL, emotions run high, especially when it comes to beloved franchises like the Colts. Fans expect excellence, and when that standard isn’t met, the disappointment can be palpable. McAfee’s fiery comments are a reflection of that sentiment, encapsulating the frustrations of a fanbase yearning for a turnaround.
As the Colts look to regroup after a tumultuous season, the challenge of rebuilding looms large. Will they heed McAfee’s call for change? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the passion for the game and the desire for success remains strong among both fans and former players alike. The Colts have a lot of work ahead, and the upcoming offseason will be crucial in determining the direction of the franchise.
