Colts Coaching Rumors Roundup: Greg Manusky Fired, Indy Linked To Sean Payton

The Indianapolis Colts' offseason hasn't played out like many expected it would, but the team's newfound head coaching stability doesn't mean there isn't intrigue around the team. Let's take a look at the rumblings around Lucas Oil Stadium with our Colts Coaching Rumors Roundup For December 5th.

Greg Manusky Fired
The Colts didn't fire head coach Chuck Pagano as many experts expected, nor did they part ways with general manager Ryan Grigson. In fact, they gave him a four-year contract extension on Monday -- dispelling release rumors that dogged both in the media for months and perhaps putting to bed rumors of an irreparable rift between the two.

However, somebody had to take the fall for the Colts' stumble to an 8-8 record this year, and that guy is defensive coordinator Greg Manusky. Via Ian Rapoport of NFL Media:

Manusky was brought by Chuck Pagano on the head coach's initial Colts coaching staff in 2012. He's served as the team's DC for all four of those seasons, following previous stints in the same capacity with the San Francisco 49ers (2007-10) and San Diego Chargers (2011).

The Colts' defense regressed in a major way under Manusky in 2015, dropping from #11 in total defense last season to #26 this season. With quarterback Andrew Luck sidelined for a significant portion of the season due to injury, the defense was tasked with picking up some slack in his absence. 

Colts Talked To Payton, Saban?
Prior to re-upping Pagano, the Indianapolis Colts contacted New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton's representation, according to Tom James of the Terre-Haute Tribune-Star. Negotiations were ongoing while talks with Pagano were also taking place.

Despite rumors that Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban would be interested in the team's head coaching job, the team didn't contact Saban or his representation before extending Pagano's contract, per Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk.

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Related Topics: Colts Rumors, Andrew Luck, Greg Manusky, Sean Payton