Jeff Saturday spoke publicly for the first time since the Colts opted to hire former Eagles offensive coordinator Shane Steichen on Tuesday, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the team he once played for.
Saturday served as the interim coach for Indianapolis for the latter part of the 2022 season after the franchise parted ways with Frank Reich after a 3-5-1 start to the year, despite having no collegiate or professional coach experience. Though the Colts won in his first-ever game against the Raiders, Indianapolis went winless in his final seven games.
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Nevertheless, Saturday was a candidate for the full-time job this hiring cycle until the Colts locked in on Steichen over the weekend. Though he may not have ended up with the gig when all was said and done, the 47-year-old had a touching message for the organization and its fanbase for the chance to coach this year.
“I just want to say to the Colts organization and to Colts Nation how much I appreciate the opportunity. I’m so grateful for the last eight weeks of the season and for the opportunity to represent you guys,” Saturday said in a video posted to Twitter. “I appreciate the coaches for all your time, energy and effort. I appreciate all the players for laying it out there each and every week… It was an absolute blessing and I look fondly upon it.”
Saturday starred in the NFL with the Colts from 1999 to 2011, making five Pro Bowls during that span. After his retirement, he went on to become a television analyst for ESPN before making the jump out of the studio and back to the sideline in Indianapolis.
“Wish we would’ve done better but ultimately that is where it is. And so, I want to wish Coach Steichen the best of luck,” Saturday continued. “I’m still a huge Colts fan and pulling for you guys. Looking forward to hoisting some Lombardi Trophies and I’m excited for your opportunity… To all Colts Nation, appreciate you guys and love you guys. I’ll see you soon.”
