Chris Ballard, the general manager of the Indianapolis Colts, passionately defended the team’s new receiver, Adonai Mitchell, during a fiery press conference following Mitchell’s selection in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Ballard vehemently criticized negative pre-draft reports about Mitchell’s character, as well as similar reports concerning other draft prospects, particularly those originating from “unknown sources.”
Chris Ballard defends draft pick’s character in press conference speech https://t.co/FQopogPE3f pic.twitter.com/JorPFjmvxK
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) April 27, 2024
Expressing frustration with the lack of accountability behind such reports, Ballard emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, urging those responsible to put their names on their criticisms. He lamented the tendency to tear down young athletes based on unsubstantiated claims, emphasizing that these players are still in their early twenties and deserve fair treatment.
Referencing similar comments he made in the past regarding negative reports about former Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud, Ballard reiterated his stance against such unfounded criticism, labeling it as unacceptable. Despite apologizing for his strong language, Ballard stood firm in his defense of Mitchell and other young athletes who faced unjust scrutiny during the draft process.
