Bruce Arians says coach Chuck Pagano expected back in Indianapolis Colts vs Houston Texans – NFL News
The Indianapolis Colts hope to determine the timeline for return of their ill coach Chuck Pagano by next week and he might hit the sidelines into the coaching role during the final game of the season versus the Houston Texans on 30th of this month
(Dec.).
Chuck has fully recovered from Leukaemia and has doctors’ permission to return to assume his coaching duties anytime he thinks is suitable for him.
Interim coach Bruce Arians has told a local newspaper now that they expect back Pagano by final game of the season but said the situation in this regard will be clearer by next week.
"(It's) still up in the air. Later this week, hopefully, we'll be able to know something for sure. (He) feels great. Looks good. (Blood) counts were good. We've got our fingers crossed."
He added:
"The perfect timing would be (for Pagano to) come in Christmas Eve. It would be a great Christmas present for all of us. That's what our goal is. Hopefully he can start Monday."
Pagano was diagnosed with cancer in Week 4 of the season and had been hospitalised since then. Having regular sessions of chemotherapy, the coach has managed to recover fully and is ready for return.
A week earlier, doctors said Pagano was all cleared to return to resume his duties but the time of the comeback should be decided by him and owner Jim Irsay. Whenever he feels comfortable he can return to the field, they assured.
It is to recall here that Pagano visited the team regularly whenever got opportunities in between the chemotherapy sessions and witnessed games and practices from coaching boxes.
He had been greatly supported by the players and coaches during the phase of recovery. It must be remarkable to note for the coach that his team has progressed well in the season during his absence. Their position on the points table is 9-5 and they just
need a win to claim berth into the playoffs through first wildcard from the American Football Conference (AFC). It will be a great comeback by the Colts after they ended the 2011 season at the worst note of 2-14.
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