2014 Colts - GM Grigson Fired, Veterans Traded

INDIANAPOLIS - It wasn't all that unexpected, especially after a four game losing streak, but it looks like the blame for 2014 has fallen on General Manager Ryan Grigson. Grigson was fired today following a loss to Pittsburgh, most of his staff will remain but the assumption is that there will be a massive cleanout after the season.

MSMG released a statement that came shortly after the news leaked via Twitter and other media sources through Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Grigson's GM tenure ended after only two years.

Ownership did not specifically cite a failure to build a balanced roster, but most of Grigson's recent moves have left the team in trouble on defense and the offensive line. The trade for Richardson, which cost them a 2013 1st round pick, was a particularly costly mistake.

If the Grigson firing wasn't a big enough surprise, the team announced a flurry of trades and free agent signings before the Week 9 trade deadline. OLB Robert Mathis was traded to the Steelers for a 2016 2nd round pick, OT Gosder Cherilus was sent to the Jets for a 4th and 7th round pick, and finally WR Hakeem Nicks was sent to the Raiders for a 3rd rounder.

In order to fill the roster gaps WR Jacoby Ford, DE Adam Carriker, and OT Max Starks were all signed to 1-year contracts. It's hard to tell if the team will crater after trading away so many starters, but they will have the Week 10 BYE to regroup.