The Indianapolis Colts haven't made a decision about head coach Chuck Pagano's future yet, but a decision is expected to be made after Pagano meets with owner Jim Irsay this afternoon. While Pagano is still under contract, he was rumored to be on the hot seat entering the season, not because of the Indianapolis Colts' play, but because of his strained relationship with general manager Ryan Grisgon. There were rumors of rift early this season, although the two denied there were issues. A slow start for the Colts didn't cool the hot seat either, and Ian Rapoport reported that Pagano had "doubts" he would return.
Here are the latest rumors surround Pagano's future and potential new candidates:
Pagano expected to be fired
Though no official word has been handed down as of yet, the Colts are expected to fire Pagano, according to ESPN's Mike Wells.
The Colts do not plan to retain coach Chuck Pagano at the end of the season, according to @MikeWellsNFL. pic.twitter.com/ZgTyxr7Nlb
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) December 31, 2015
Pagano took over in Indianapolis back in 2012, posting an 11-5 record in all three of his previous seasons with the team. However, with the team finishing second in the AFC South at 8-8 and missing out on the playoffs, along with the "toxic" relationship between Pagano and GM Ryan Grigson, the situation has become untenable in Indianapolis.
Colts want Saints head coach Sean Payton, Saints want 2nd-round pick
Assuming the Colts fire Pagano, they have New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton at the top of their wish list. Payton has said that he's interested in looking into other coaching opportunities as the Saints start to rebuild, but New Orleans wants a second-round pick as compensation for him, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
From what I am told, the potential price placed by the #Saints on Sean Payton is a 2nd rounder… That's what it'll take to pry him.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 4, 2016
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