Browns’ Coaching Hunt Intensifies as Crucial Decisions Loom
The Cleveland Browns are in the midst of an intensive search for a new head coach, a critical task that could shape the franchise’s future. With significant rebuilding ahead, including changes to their offensive line and wide receiver corps, the team is eager to attract an innovative, offensive-minded leader. This comes after a disappointing two seasons where the Browns recorded only eight wins.
Browns’ Coaching Search and Future Plans
Owner Jimmy Haslam recently terminated head coach Kevin Stefanski after six seasons but retained general manager Andrew Berry. Haslam entrusts Berry with leading this coaching search while focusing on revitalizing the team’s roster, particularly on offense.
Offensive Struggles and Defense Potential
The Browns’ offense ranked among the worst in the league in 2025, standing in the bottom five for scoring, total yards, and passing efficiency. Despite these struggles, the defense demonstrated significant potential, leading to speculation about Jim Schwartz, the current defensive coordinator, potentially taking on the head coach role.
- 2025 Browns offensive rankings:
- Bottom five in scoring
- Bottom five in total yards
- Bottom five in interceptions per attempt
Haslam expressed hope for future improvements, emphasizing the importance of building a strong foundation of talented players and effective leadership. “The next 120 days are crucial for the organization,” Haslam noted, highlighting the need to identify the right head coach and bolster the roster as they approach the NFL Draft.
Upcoming Decision Deadlines
The Browns face essential deadlines over the next 120 days. They have approximately 90 days until the NFL Draft and around 40 days until the player movement period begins. With 10 draft picks, including two first-round selections at No. 6 and No. 24, the team must make strategic hires and trades.
Coaching Candidates and Interviews
The coaching search is progressing, with candidates including Schwartz and Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken, who recently completed interviews. Under the NFL’s Rooney Rule, the Browns must conduct in-person interviews with at least two minority candidates before making a hire, complicating the process as some scheduled interviews are subject to last-minute changes.
To ensure timely hiring, the Browns are also attending the Senior Bowl, where further evaluations can assist in scouting potential draft picks and coordinator candidates.
Financial Considerations and Roster Moves
Amid coaching decisions, the Browns are tackling significant financial commitments. Deshaun Watson’s contract, which could cost around $80 million against the cap, is a primary concern. A restructuring is expected to alleviate some of the financial strain.
- Key financial elements entering the offseason:
- Anticipated restructuring of Watson’s contract
- Over $40 million in dead money from past contract accelerations
- Potential retirements impacting cap space
As they approach March, which marks the start of the new league year and free agency, the Browns will also need to finalize decisions about key free agents. The roster adjustments and coaching hire will play crucial roles in their strategy for the upcoming season.
Concluding Thoughts
The Cleveland Browns stand at a pivotal moment, where the choices made in the next few months could significantly impact their trajectory. The search for a head coach is crucial, and they must remain strategic in their approach to the draft and free agency to foster a successful turnaround.
