Mike McDaniel Withdraws from Cleveland Browns Head Coach Consideration
Mike McDaniel, the former Miami Dolphins head coach, has opted out of the Cleveland Browns’ head coaching search. This decision leaves the team with five remaining candidates for the position. McDaniel, who served as the Browns’ receivers coach in 2014, canceled his in-person second interview, which was scheduled for Wednesday, according to league sources.
Browns’ Finalists for Head Coach Position
The Browns are now focusing on the following candidates:
- Jim Schwartz — Defensive Coordinator
- Todd Monken — Offensive Coordinator, Baltimore Ravens
- Grant Udinski — Offensive Coordinator, Jacksonville Jaguars
- Jesse Minter — Defensive Coordinator, Los Angeles Chargers
- Nate Scheelhaase — Pass Game Coordinator, Los Angeles Rams
While Schwartz and Monken have already completed their interviews, Scheelhaase cannot be interviewed until after the NFC Championship Game this Sunday. The team is also required to interview an additional minority or female candidate to comply with the Rooney Rule.
Implications of McDaniel’s Withdrawal
McDaniel’s withdrawal may indicate his belief that he was not a favorite for the job. He also has other opportunities available, having interviewed for head coaching positions with the Baltimore Ravens and Las Vegas Raiders. Additionally, he is in consideration for offensive coordinator roles with the Tennessee Titans and Los Angeles Chargers.
The Browns face challenges with their quarterback situation, as Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders are potential starters for the upcoming season. The team may also look to draft or acquire a veteran quarterback to ensure a stable position going forward.
Interview Schedule and Next Steps
The Browns are proceeding with their interview schedule. They spoke with Schwartz on Monday and Monken on Tuesday. They have an open slot on Wednesday and plan to interview Minter on Thursday and Udinski on Friday. Scheelhaase will be considered next week, contingent on his NFC Championship Game outcome.
Following the completion of these interviews, the Browns aim to hire their 19th head coach, ideally soon after the final interviews unless they choose to wait for Scheelhaase’s availability.
