Former Indianapolis Colts tight end Eric Ebron claimed on the On My Soul podcast that Indianapolis general manager Chris Ballard issued quarterback Andrew Luck a wild ultimatum in 2019.
“[Luck] don’t tell nobody this. This is the backstory,” Ebron said. “He’s so tired of injury that he just doesn’t want to do surgery. You know who the man is around there that gets on everyone’s nerves. Big draws over there behind that desk.
“He tells Andrew, ‘You’re either playing this year or we’re moving on.’ Who the f–k would tell Andrew Luck that? Right? Andrew Luck now says, ‘I’m not going to be ready, I’m tired of playing with pain. I’m going to retire.'”
Ebron alleged the remark came as Luck, battling persistent injuries including a calf strain that became a high-ankle issue, declined further surgery and expressed fatigue from playing through pain.
Ebron said Ballard’s statement prompted Luck to retire abruptly on August 24, 2019, days before the regular season, ending a promising career marked by elite talent but frequent health setbacks.
Luck, the No. 1 overall pick in 2012, had signed a six-year, $140 million extension in 2016. The team did not seek repayment of roughly $24.8 million in signing bonus money after his departure.
Ebron, who played one season with Luck in 2018 and posted career-best numbers, described Ballard as the individual who “gets on everyone’s nerves.” However, Ebron has a documented history of tension with Ballard from his Colts tenure, including public friction over playing time and roster decisions.
The claim has sparked debate among fans and analysts. Some view it as damning if accurate, while others question Ebron’s credibility given the timing—nearly seven years later—and his past grievances.
Ballard has not publicly addressed the allegation. The controversy resurfaces questions about the franchise’s quarterback situation since Luck’s exit.
