Colts head coach Chuck Pagano is staying.
The Indianapolis Colts announced a four-year contract extension for Pagano on Monday night. During a news conference at the Indiana Farm Bureau Football Complex in Indianapolis, Pagano was quick to praise the city, the team's management and his players.
"It got me and my family through a trying time and for that I could never repay that debt," Pagano said. " But Tina and I, we love this city. We love this community. We love this organization and we love this football team."
Owner Jim Irsay said continuity was key in the decision. Irsay added General Manager Ryan Grigson's contract will be tied to Pagano's.
Rumors of Pagano's sack were circulating Sunday, after the Colts (8-8) ended their season without going to the playoffs for the first time during Pagano's tenure with the team.
Several Colts players stated their support of the decision to renew Pagano's contract, including Pat McAfee and Vontae Davis.
I love Chuck Pagano.. I think I speak for America when I say.. I'm extremely happy for him — Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) January 5, 2016
You wouldn't understand. #ChuckStays #CHUCKSTRONG pic.twitter.com/vxUelg9Tsr — Vontae Davis (@vontaedavis) January 5, 2016
The season was marred by injuries at the Quarterback position with their Top 3 QB's suffering season ending injuries--meaning they finished the season with a pair of QB's they had signed less than a week before this past Sundays game.
Despite this year's record Pagano still has one of the best winning percentage of active coaches.