
29. Chuck Pagano, Indianapolis Colts
Speaking of being on the hot seat, Pagano has to fit that bill as the new season approaches. The Colts, or more specifically owner Jim Irsay, chose him over former general manager Ryan Grigson when it came time to make a change after back-to-back 8-8 campaigns. But that doesnāt mean his job is at all secure beyond this season.
The biggest elephant in the room for Pagano is new Coltsā general manager Chris Ballard, who has taken on the task of restocking a roster that was so poorly constructed and thoroughlyĀ mismanaged by Grigson.
But the second lingeringĀ issue is the health of quarterback Andrew Luck, who had offseason shoulder surgery and is still working his way back to full strength. There is a doomsday scenario being offered about Luck opening the regular season on the PUP list, which would cost him at least the first six games. While itās unlikely, and Luck wouldnāt necessarily need to practice or play before Week 1, any thought that he will miss time is bad news for Pagano.
The ColtsĀ will beĀ veryĀ vulnerable on the field, and by connection, Pagano is too without an improved win total this year. Heās not a good enough head coach to overcome talent deficiencies on a roster, and if Luck is operating at less than 100 percent health heĀ canāt deliver aĀ 10-win season and save Paganoās job on his own.