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Local Indianapolis TV station WHTR is reporting that the Colts have fired longtime runningbacks coach Gene Huey, who has been with the team since for almost 20 years. So far, there is no official word from the team.
If true [UPDATE: Report confirmed], this is a terrible mistake. Gene Huey coached running backs like Marshall Faulk, Edgerrin James, and Joseph Addai to multiple Pro Bowls. He took 'nobodys' like Dominic Rhodes and coached them into 1,000 yard rushers. He coached other notables like Roosevelt Potts, Zach Crockett, and Lamont Warren.
Considering how absolutely dreadful the Colts offensive line was in 2010, this past season might have been Huey's best. People like Javarris James and Mike Hart were often called upon to step up, and did so.
One of my favorite memories covering the Super Bowl last year was my 30 minute conversation with Huey, talking about the backs he's coached and his unheralded legacy as one of the best assistants the Colts have ever had.
Now, a year later, he's fired?
From Phil Wilson:
Don't quite understand why the #Colts have parted with RBs coach Gene Huey. Seriously doubt he suddenly stopped being a solid coach.
Makes no sense to us either. Then again, most of Jim Caldwell's decisions of late make little sense to anyone. From the looks of things, seems like Caldwell and Bill Polian are scapegoating Huey for the shortcomings in the running game the last few years.
And to rather unceremoniously fire such a great and dedicated assistant like this is pretty petty.