Indianapolis Colts first-year head coach Chuck Pagano has been diagnosed with a treatable form of leukemia, according to sources.
The sources said Pagano waited until the Colts’ bye week last week to be checked out after experiencing extreme fatigue and bruising, starting in training camp.
Pagano believed he was experiencing football fatigue, but a blood test early last week revealed the diagnosis of leukemia.
Pagano has been in lockdown since last Wednesday in an intensive care unit of an Indianapolis-area hospital, where he has been receiving treatment.
The sources said Pagano will be out a minimum of six weeks, but that he plans to return as coach.
He confirmed in a text that he plans to return, writing, “Will be back soon.”
The Indianapolis Star is reporting that offensive coordinator Bruce Arians will serve as the interim coach in Pagano’s absence.
Colts owner Jim Irsay addressed Pagano’s situation in a tweet Monday morning, asking NFL fans to keep the coach in their thoughts.
He wrote: “Colts n all NFL Fans..keep Coach Chuck n his family in your prayers..He is fighting with courageous energy n faith and WILL win this battle!”
WRITTEN BY Chris Mortensen | ESPN & FULL STORY HERE
