Keenan Allen remains an integral part of the Indianapolis Colts’ roster despite a recent DUI arrest. General Manager Chris Ballard expressed unwavering support for Allen during a press conference, reinforcing the team’s decision to keep the veteran wide receiver.
“Good people make mistakes,” Ballard declared while defending Allen’s place on the team as they gear up for the regular-season opener against the Baltimore Ravens. “He’s a tremendous human being. Give him some grace. And he’ll work through the process of the legal system.”
Allen, who was added late in the training camp, serves as a backup plan in case Alec Pierce remains sidelined due to calf and heel issues. The Colts signed him on August 19, reconnecting him with Head Coach Shane Steichen, who previously collaborated with Allen during their time with the Los Angeles Chargers.
Adding to the support, former Colts and Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers endorsed Allen, having played together in Los Angeles. Ballard emphasized Allen’s solid reputation, noting, “Fourteen years in the league, no issues. Decorated career, decorated teammate. Our relationship with Philip Rivers, and Shane was with him.”
Although Allen only took part in one preseason game, he was arrested the following morning in downtown Indianapolis. According to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, officers discovered Allen’s car in a no-parking zone and observed signs of intoxication.
He faced preliminary misdemeanor charges for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Allen’s blood-alcohol concentration exceeded 0.08%, but specific details have not been released. He was processed and later released from the Marion County Arrestee Processing Center without a publicly disclosed bond amount.
The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office remains responsible for determining the formal charges. Meanwhile, the NFL continues to monitor the situation under the Personal Conduct Policy. Allen could face league discipline.
Allen’s court appearance is set for September 16, three days after the Colts’ season opener against the Ravens. The team and the public await further developments in this legal matter.
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