Colts

2012 | 11-5 | Lost wild-card round

Pagano’s path: Pagano arrived in Indy following the previous year’s infamous “Suck for Luck” campaign and 2-14 record. No. 1 draft pick Andrew Luck took over as quarterback, completing the Colts’ transition from Peyton Manning. Pagano brought a 3-4 base front and began the conversion from a 4-3. His first season took a harrowing turn in late September, though, when he was diagnosed with an acute form of leukemia. He returned Week 17 after interim coach Bruce Arians, the offensive coordinator, guided the Colts to nine wins in 12 games. Pagano’s illness affected him deeply, crystallizing his perspective on mortality and a fighting spirit.

Quote of note: “We’re a team of misfits who’ve come together around one big cause. And that’s our leader, who gives us inspiration and hope and makes us understand it’s much bigger than us.” — Punter Pat McAfee