Chris Ballard wore his heart on his sleeve, defending Adonai Mitchell, who was recently drafted by the Colts in an intense press conference.
He used this platform to blast negative pre-draft reports that surrounded Mitchell ahead of the draft.
Colts GM Chris Ballard went on an all-time rant on the media for negative character reports about draft pick Adonai Mitchell. https://t.co/w3Z11yy1v5
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) April 29, 2024
Negative reports about potential draftees’ character are disconcerting, especially when they originate from “unknown sources.”
“I read some of the that was said on TV,” Ballard said. “I mean, just the typical — excuse my language — our typical lede. Unnamed sources. Bad interview. That’s such. I mean, it is. It’s. Like, put your name on it. I’m tired of — we tear these young men down. These are 21, 22-year-old men. If people out there can tell me they’re perfect in their lives. It’s crap. It’s crap. This is a good kid.”
Ballard didn’t shy away from confronting these rumors. The general manager voiced his defense, not just for Mitchell, but for all other potential draftees who were facing similar allegations.
Ballard referenced remarks he had made in 2023 over similar negative reports on then-Ohio State quarterback, C.J. Stroud.
By reiterating this, Ballard made it clear where he stands on such issues plaguing the NFL drafting process.
Defending his decision to select Mitchell and denouncing sourced rumors, Ballard stated, “And for those reports to come out, I said it last year, it’s. I’m sorry. I apologize for the language. I don’t. But I do.”
Contrary to unfounded rumors, Adonai Mitchell was a sought-after player in this year’s second round. An excellent receiver from Texas, he brings youthfulness, energy, and promising talent to the Colts’ offensive line.
The Indianapolis Colts has a well-entrenched football tradition. Drafting Mitchell not only boosts the team’s offensive strength, but also gives the Colts a fresh energy to carry forward the next season.
