Jim Irsay says NFL ‘admits’ incorrect calls in Colts’ loss

INDIANAPOLIS — Indianapolis Colts owner, Jim Irsay, reveals that the NFL has acknowledged and comprehends that two crucial calls in his team’s defeat against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday were incorrect.

In a post on X Tuesday night, Irsay likely referred to the team’s anticipated follow-up with NFL officials on Monday to clarify the illegal contact and defensive pass interference calls made against Colts cornerback Darrell Baker Jr. These calls greatly influenced the Browns’ opportunity to secure a narrow 39-38 victory.

The flagged illegal contact invalidated a potential sack-fumble that the Indianapolis Colts recovered, a play that could have effectively sealed the game. The controversy revolved around whether Baker intentionally impeded Amari Cooper’s route or if the contact was incidental. Moments later, the pass interference penalty was called despite the throw to Donovan Peoples-Jones arguably being uncatchable.

According to NFL rules, pass interference should not have applied in such circumstances. However, since the interference occurred in the end zone, the Browns gained possession at the 1-yard line, leading to their winning touchdown four plays later.

It is customary for teams to privately seek further clarification from the league office regarding disputed calls. Colts coach Shane Steichen, who described the flags as “tough calls,” indicated on Monday that the team may opt to do so.

Normally, these conversations remain undisclosed, but Irsay broke from convention by sharing the details in his post. He wrote, “The NFL admits and understands that they did not make the correct calls at the end of Sunday’s Colts-Browns game. I believe we should implement Instant Replay for all calls, including Penalties, in the last two minutes of all games.”

Additionally, Irsay announced that Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson underwent right shoulder surgery in Los Angeles on Tuesday to repair his AC joint sprain. Richardson is projected to miss the rest of the season, but Irsay assured that “no new surprises were found” during the procedure.

A source informed ESPN that Dr. Neal ElAttrache, the surgeon renowned for performing Achilles tendon repairs on the late NBA legend Kobe Bryant and New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, conducted the surgery. At present, there is no established timeline for Richardson’s return.