Andrew Luck

“I think everyone just needs to digest this fact that he’s more retired now than he was a year and a half ago," was Irsay's exact quote. “Only Andrew knows, of course, because it’s his decision, but I can only say that he definitely is retired. ... Believe me, I wish (the rumors were) true, and I was hiding some announcement that we could release two days from now, but that’s not the case.” Intensely private, Luck has given zero indication he is planning to return after his stunning August 2019 decision. 

Ballard is ending the conversation before it can start, seemingly focused on other options to improve his team's quarterback situation. Luck stays in touch with some of his former coworkers, but he hasn't given any indication of planning a return to football.

This backs up Luck's comments on the record from Saturday evening, namely that he's "going to retire." While this hypothetical is unlikely for a variety of reasons, he would have to pass through waivers unclaimed to return to the Colts if he wanted to play at some point this season. With the transaction official, the Colts will move on with Jacoby Brissett as their starting quarterback.

After suiting up for all 16 games in each of his first three pro seasons, Luck missed 26 contests over the ensuing three campaigns before playing a full slate yet again in 2018. However, with additional injury concerns plaguing him this offseason, training camp and preseason, he's made the decision to call it a career. The Colts will turn to Jacoby Brissett to run the offense moving forward.