'Wish we would have done better': Jeff Saturday wishes Colts coach Shane Steichen luck

Jeff Saturday thanked the Indianapolis Colts organization and its fans for his time as interim head coach this past season.

On Tuesday, Saturday, while on a boat, said he was thankful for the opportunity.

"I'm so grateful for the last eight weeks of the season and the opportunity to represent you guys," Saturday said. "I appreciate the coaches for all your time, energy and effort. To all the players laying it out there each and every week, I can't tell you how much I respect and appreciate what each and every player — not only for the Colts, but the NFL — do and what they put on the line each and every week."

Saturday, who went 1-7 as the team's coach, was in the running for its permanent head coach. However, Indianapolis went in a different direction when it hired former Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Shane Steichen.

"It was an absolute blessing," Saturday said. "I look fondly upon it. Wish we would have done better, but ultimately that is where it is."

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Saturday also wishes Steichen luck.

"I'm still a huge Colt fan and pulling for you guys," Saturday said. "Looking forward to hoisting some Lombardi trophies and excited for your opportunity."

Saturday also acknowledged the petition to keep him from becoming the permanent head coach.

"For everybody out there, including the however many thousands that signed the petition, which may have included my wife and son, I'm not exactly really sure," Saturday said with a laugh. "But in all honesty, I'm so grateful for Colts nation and who you are to represent the horseshoe. It meant the world to me."

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Colts: Jeff Saturday thanks fans, wishes Shane Steichen luck