Indianapolis Colts Coach Chuck Pagano Diagnosed with Leukemia

The diagnosis will more than likely keep the first-time head coach off the sidelines for the remainder of the season.

ESPN first broke the story early Monday morning, saying the Pagano was admitted to an Indianapolis hospital last Wednesday after experiencing what he thought was "football fatigue" since training camp in late-July. It was also reported the coach had some bruising that took an abnormal amount of time to heal, a symptom of the disease.

Pagano will remained hospitalized for six to eight weeks while he undergoes treatment. In his absence, new offensive coordinator, Bruce Arians will take over head coaching duties. During a press conference early Monday afternoon, Colts owner, Jim Irsay said he thinks "it's unlikely he'll be all-in as the head coach the rest of this season...He may be able to come back and be in the press box or something."

Also speaking at the press conference was Dr. Larry Cripe, the physician overseeing Pagano's treatment at Indiana University's Simon Cancer Center. Cripe said the coach had be receiving treatment since last week's diagnosis and that many adults do recover from the disease. He continued by saying the ultimate goal was to "cure" Pagano meaning the disease remains in remission for 3-5 years.

Coach Arians told ESPN that would permanently leave the light on in Pagano's office until the coach returns.