He criticized the Colts’ organization.
Former Pat McAfee, longtime Indianapolis Colts punter and current sports commentator, did not mince words after watching his former team’s postseason dreams vanish in a 45-33 loss to the New York Giants. The setback, characterized by mistakes and defensive lapses, cemented the Colts’ destiny, sending them to 7-9 and out of playoff contention.
McAfee chastised the Colts’ organization for a perceived lack of professionalism and accountability in a heated post on X.
“A blind person could see the red flags on this team,” McAfee said, citing faults ranging from work ethic and preparedness to punctuality for meetings and therapy sessions.
McAfee cited a moment featuring franchise quarterback Anthony Richardson as an example of the team’s underlying issues. Richardson reportedly tapped out of a game during a critical third-down scenario in the red zone due to exhaustion, a move McAfee described as unparalleled in NFL history.
“That’s literally the only thing you need to tell someone (who knows ball) and they could tell you everything about this team,” according to McAfee. He also stated that such an incident would quickly indicate to seasoned players and coaches that the club had “no chance.”
Personal and professional frustrations
McAfee’s frustration went beyond the field. He said that Colts fans and media outlets attacked him for questioning the team’s strategy, namely his remark that veteran quarterback Joe Flacco may have a greater chance of winning than Richardson following the contentious tap-out.
“Colts blogs and fans who have been covering the Colts since 2020 and more recent knew better than everybody… Started personally attacking me and trying to kick me out of town,” he wrote.
McAfee tied Richardson’s actions to broader cultural issues within the organization, describing a “loser attitude radiating through a building that was built by greats.”
The former punter, a three-time Pro Bowl nominee and Hall of Fame contender, expressed disappointment in what he saw as a missed chance for a franchise with a rich heritage. He criticized the team’s unjustified hubris and lack of professionalism, citing a stark contrast to the culture established by Colts legends.
“As someone who has actively, daily, attempted to be an additive to this beautiful city, I hope they become a good franchise again,” McAfee added. “The OGs in the Colts building deserve it… but the players/coaches in that building deserve whatever happens to them.”
