After a successful first season as the Ravens’ defensive coordinator, Chuck Pagano will interview for the head coaching vacancy for the Indianapolis Colts on Tuesday.
The Baltimore defense finished third in the league in fewest points and yards allowed while sending linebackers Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs, safety Ed Reed, and defensive tackle Haloti Ngata to the Pro Bowl in Honolulu. Pagano was praised for his close relationship with players and his aggressive play-calling approach was a major reason why the Ravens increased their sack total from a franchise-low 27 in 2010 to 48 in 2011.
Pagano replaced Greg Mattison, who spent two years as the Ravens’ defensive coordinator before taking the same position with the University of Michigan last offseason.
Indianapolis has reportedly interviewed former Ohio State coach Jim Tressel and would like to have a new head coach in place this week, according to Colts owner Jim Irsay.
Should Pagano become the Colts’ head coach, in-house candidates to replace him could include defensive line coach Clarence Brooks, linebackers coach Deen Pees, and outside linebackers coach Ted Monachino. Before joining the Ravens’ coaching staff in 2010, Pees served as the defensive coordinator of the New England Patriots for four seasons (2006-09).
Former Baltimore defensive coordinators to received head coaching positions elsewhere include Marvin Lewis, Mike Nolan, and Rex Ryan.
