The Indianapolis Colts have found themselves in a disappointing situation after a promising start to the season, leaving fans to wonder if they can still make the playoffs. The Colts, who began the 2026 season with a strong 7-1 record, have since faced a historic late-season collapse that has derailed their postseason hopes
The Colts' playoff fate was sealed with the Houston Texans' victory over the Chargers on Saturday night.
This loss officially knocked the Colts out of playoff contention, marking the fifth consecutive year the team will miss the postseason. The Colts’ 2026 campaign, which at one point seemed full of promise, ended in a frustrating manner. After an impressive start, the Colts' inability to maintain their momentum has led to a season-ending record of 8-7, a far cry from what was expected by their fans.
The Colts are not the only team this season to experience such a dramatic fall from grace. They join a select few—specifically, the sixth team since the 1970 AFL-NFL merger—to miss the playoffs after starting 7-1 or better, highlighting the unpredictability of the NFL.
As for the Texans, their victory over the Chargers was pivotal in determining the Colts’ fate. The Texans' win not only secured their own playoff spot but also ensured that the Colts would be on the outside looking in, further complicating their already challenging playoff scenario.
The Texans are now in the playoffs, demonstrating the competitive nature of the NFL and the importance of late-season performances. The Texans' 20-16 victory over the Chargers on Saturday secured their playoff position.
The Colts' elimination from the playoffs highlights the importance of consistency in the NFL. Despite their strong start, the Colts’ inability to maintain their winning streak and the unforeseen impact of other teams' performances have collectively contributed to their current situation.
The Colts are out of playoff contention, with an 8-7 record, representing a season of missed opportunities and unmet expectations. Fans will now turn their focus to the offseason, hoping for changes that will bring the team back to contention in the coming years. The lesson here is clear: in the NFL, consistency and resilience are key to achieving postseason success.
