Report: Ted Monachino a "strong candidate" to become Colts' defensive coordinator

It turns out that we'll be covering a Colts coaching search after all, though not the one that was expected.  Instead of a head coaching search, the Colts are will be looking for a new defensive coordinator after they reportedly fired Greg Manusky on Tuesday.

According to FOX Sports' Alex Marvez, Ravens linebackers coach Ted Monachino "will be a strong candidate" to wind up with the Colts' defensive coordinator job.

Monachino has been the Ravens' linebackers coach for the past six seasons (2010-2015) and has developed a good reputation for coaching players such as Terrell Suggs, Elvis Dumervil, and C.J. Mosley, among others.  Prior to heading to Baltimore, Monachino was the defensive line coach for the Jacksonville Jaguars for four seasons (2006-2009).  He had previously worked at a number of college coaching jobs, including with Arizona State from 2001-2005 where he coached Terrell Suggs as well.  His name has been linked to defensive coordinator jobs in the past and he is generally viewed to be ready for the challenge.

It wouldn't be a surprise whatsoever to see the Colts turn to Ravens assistant coaches to fill their coaching vacancies, including (and probably especially) defensive coordinator.  Chuck Pagano coached with the Ravens for four seasons before heading to Indianapolis (three as the secondary coach and one as defensive coordinator) and developed several good relationships there.  Considering the fact that his system is very similar to the one run in Baltimore, it would make sense for Pagano to go after someone he knows and who knows the system.  Pagano and Monachino coached together in Baltimore for two seasons.  Perhaps the biggest question about this potential move is whether the Ravens would allow Monachino to interview for and accept the job if Chuck Pagano is indeed that interested.

UPDATE: Ravens head coach John Harbaugh announced on Thursday that Monachino is indeed heading to Indianapolis to become the Colts' defensive coordinator.