Keenan Allen will continue to play for the Indianapolis Colts despite a DUI arrest on Sunday. General Manager Chris Ballard confirmed this during a press conference on Tuesday, emphasizing the team’s decision to retain the veteran wide receiver.
Ballard stated, “Good people make mistakes. He’s a tremendous human being. Give him some grace. And he’ll work through the process of the legal system.” The Colts plan to proceed with Allen on the team as they prepare for their regular-season opener against the Baltimore Ravens.
Allen joined the Colts late in training camp as a backup plan for Alec Pierce, who is recovering from calf and heel issues. He signed a one-year contract on August 19. The move reunited Allen with head coach Shane Steichen, who previously worked with him in Los Angeles. Allen also came with a strong recommendation from Philip Rivers, a former Colts quarterback, and ex-teammate with the Chargers.
Ballard highlighted Allen’s spotless 14-year NFL career and his reputation as a highly regarded teammate, particularly noting Rivers’ admiration for Allen. Ballard also mentioned the positive impression made by meeting Allen’s family, further supporting their decision to stand by him.
After playing in just one preseason game, Allen was arrested at approximately 1 a.m. on Sunday in downtown Indianapolis. He was found by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police parked in a no-parking zone, showing signs of intoxication. Preliminary misdemeanor charges include operating a vehicle while intoxicated and endangering another person. His blood-alcohol level was reportedly at least 0.08%.
Allen was processed and released from the Marion County Arrestee Processing Center by Sunday afternoon. The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office will make the final decision on charges. Meanwhile, the NFL continues to monitor the situation. Allen may face discipline under the league’s Personal Conduct Policy, as multiple cases are currently pending.
His first court appearance is set for September 16, three days after the Colts play their first regular-season game against the Ravens.
For more sports coverage, follow Armando Salguero, a senior NFL writer for OutKick, on X: @ARMANDOSALGUERO.
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