An all-state linebacker at Fairview High School, he played at Colorado Mesa University from 1985 to 1988, earning a degree in business marketing.
The Chargers also increased their sack total, going from 32 in 2011 to 38 in 2012, including a team-record-tying 11-sack performance in a Dec 23 win against the New York Jets.
On January 26, 2018, Pagano was hired as a senior defensive assistant for the Houston Texans.
[3] On February 15, 2024, Pagano was hired by the Washington Commanders as a senior defensive assistant.
[5] The Pagano brothers both played for their father, Sam, who spent 26 years as the head coach at Fairview High.