IndyStar's Stephen Holder discusses how the Indianapolis Colts are approaching their coaching search, and the likely hiring of New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. Stephen Holder/IndyStar
INDIANAPOLIS – New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels is nearing a deal to become the next coach of the Indianapolis Colts, an NFL source told IndyStar.
McDaniels cannot be officially hired until the Patriots’ season ends, per NFL rules. With the Patriots competing in next Sunday’s AFC Championship Game, they are one win shy of another Super Bowl berth. That would push McDaniels’ official hiring back two additional weeks.
Still, the sides appear to have reached a point in their talks where a deal is all but expected. McDaniels was one of two finalists for the job, along with Houston Texans defensive coordinator Mike Vrabel.
McDaniels was thought to be the leading contender, what with his connection to Colts General Manager Chris Ballard (they share the same agent) and the appeal of leading an offense with a healthy Andrew Luck, as the franchise quarterback works his way back from shoulder surgery.
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