Gus Bradley to return as Colts Defensive Coordinator

There's been a lot of chatter on whether or not the Indianapolis Colts would look to make a change at their defensive coordinator position.  And today, during his end-of-season presser, Colts GM Chris Ballard put those conversations to bed.  First, it was Shane Steichen who, during his end-of-season presser, shared that he believed in "continuity" […]

Destin Adams NFL News Writer
Add as preferred source on Google
Colts Defensive Coordinator and former Jaguars Head Coach Gus Bradley on the sideline during late fourth-quarter action. The Jacksonville Jaguars hosted the Indianapolis Colts at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, FL Sunday, October 15, 2023. The Jaguars ended the first half with a 21 to 6 lead and won with a final score of 37 to 20.
Bob Self/Florida Times-Union / USA TODAY NETWORK

There's been a lot of chatter on whether or not the Indianapolis Colts would look to make a change at their defensive coordinator position. 

And today, during his end-of-season presser, Colts GM Chris Ballard put those conversations to bed. 

First, it was Shane Steichen who, during his end-of-season presser, shared that he believed in "continuity" and that he had a lot of confidence in Gus Bradley. And now, Ballard shared that Bradley is under contract for next season and expects him back next season. 

This wasn't the news some fans wanted to hear on the topic. But it seems Bradley will officially be the team's DC for 2024. Ballard also shared that he expects to see a step forward for the defense. A part of his reason had to do with the amount of youth on that side of the ball. Another year under their belts and a year of tape to study and learn from for those players should result in noticeable growth. 

Even if there are improvements, I think I speak for everyone when I say that Bradley still needs to adjust his defense to the modern NFL. He needs to better adjust his coverage calls via the game's flow. And he needs to utilize the blitz at a much higher rate going forward.