Chris Ballard

Christopher R. Ballard (born June 24, 1969) is an American professional football executive who is the general manager for the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League (NFL). Before joining the Colts, he was an executive for the Kansas City Chiefs, serving as the director of player personnel and then as the director of football operations. Ballard was also a scout for the Chicago Bears and served in various coaching roles at Texas A&M University–Kingsville.

Early life Ballard was born in Galveston, Texas. Growing up a severe asthmatic in Texas, as well as Wisconsin, his parents reluctantly let him play football at a young age. Ballard was a star quarterback in high school at Texas City High School. His favorite NFL team was once the Pittsburgh Steelers, and his favorite player was Terry Bradshaw.

Ballard attended the University of Wisconsin–Madison and switched his position to wide receiver as a freshman. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1993.

Kansas City Chiefs Prior to the 2013 season, Ballard joined the Kansas City Chiefs as director of player personnel. He stayed in that position until becoming the director of football operations the end of the 2014 season. On February 11, 2018, the Colts announced Frank Reich as their new head coach.

The Colts finished the 2018 season with a 10–6 record, and two of Ballard's 2018 draft choices, Quenton Nelson and Shaquille Leonard, were named to the AP All-Pro First Team, becoming the first set of rookie teammates to be named First Team All-Pro since 1965 and only the second in NFL history. Leonard was also named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. Ballard was named the NFL Executive of the Year by the Pro Football Writers of America in 2018.

In August 2021, Ballard signed a five-year contract extension with the Colts.

Personal life Ballard and his wife, Kristin, have three children and adopted two more in 2012.