The Cleveland Browns are actively pursuing candidates for their head coaching position, having completed six interviews and scheduling four additional ones as of Thursday afternoon. With the first day for in-person interviews for currently employed coaches approaching this Monday, the Browns are aiming to conclude their initial round of interviews soon and narrow down to a select group of finalists.
As of now, the league has eight head-coaching vacancies, and while the New York Giants are set to hire John Harbaugh, securing a candidate of his caliber for the Browns may prove challenging as other teams shape their priorities. Among those interviewed, Todd Monken, the offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens, is expected to join Harbaugh in New York, thereby diminishing one of the Browns’ potential options.
The current leading candidates for the Browns include Chris Shula, the Los Angeles Rams’ defensive coordinator, and Nathan Scheelhaase, the Rams’ pass game coordinator, both of whom remain in playoff contention. Last week, the team also interviewed Aden Durde, the defensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks, although he seems less likely to be hired. Coaches whose teams advance in the playoffs will not be available for interviews until after their respective runs conclude.
Other notable names in contention include ex-Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel and current Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, both of whom have garnered interest from multiple teams. Schwartz, who has interviewed with both the Browns and the Ravens, remains a significant consideration as well.
The Browns are particularly aware of the need for an offensive-minded coach, especially given their ongoing quarterback situation and the offensive struggles that led to Kevin Stefanski’s dismissal. Nevertheless, statistics from recent playoff seasons suggest that head coaches with defensive backgrounds can also find success, emphasizing that the emphasis should not solely be on an offensive focus.
Among the candidates, McDaniel, at 42, stands out as the only one with play-calling experience, having previously led the Dolphins to playoff appearances.
Shula, who turns 40 next month, has also emerged as a strong candidate after having been promoted within the Rams’ coaching staff. He has developed a reputation for his defensive acumen, which has drawn attention from other teams, especially as the Rams defense has significantly improved during his tenure.
The Browns may still look to expand their interview pool, particularly if they feel they need more options following this weekend’s interviews. Notably, other up-and-coming coaches, such as Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley and Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, have not yet been considered by the Browns but could come into play.
As the Browns continue their search, there’s hope for a fresh start that can lead to new successes, particularly with a young coach who can adapt to the evolving dynamics of the game and bring enthusiasm to a franchise looking for stability. The next few days may prove crucial in determining the direction of the coaching search and the future of the Browns.