Mike McDaniel Interviews for Cleveland Browns Head Coach Position

Mike McDaniel has recently stepped back as a candidate for the Cleveland Browns’ head coach position. Instead, he is set to interview for the open head coach role with the Buffalo Bills today.

Background on Mike McDaniel

McDaniel, who previously served as the Browns’ receivers coach in 2014, was also head coach of the Miami Dolphins. His decision to withdraw from the Browns’ search came after he cancelled a second interview in Cleveland. This move is widely interpreted as an attempt to secure the offensive coordinator position with the Los Angeles Chargers.

Cleveland Browns’ Head Coach Search

The Browns’ head coaching search has faced adjustments following McDaniel’s exit. Initially, McDaniel was among six finalists, but now the list has narrowed down. The remaining candidates are:

• Jim Schwartz – Defensive Coordinator (Browns)
• Todd Monken – Offensive Coordinator (Ravens)
• Grant Udinski – Offensive Coordinator (Jaguars)
• Nate Scheelhaase – Offensive Coordinator (Rams)

Upcoming Interviews

Schwartz has already undergone a second interview at the Browns’ headquarters on Monday, followed by Monken on Tuesday. Today, Udinski will also have his second interview. Scheelhaase is scheduled for an interview after competing in the NFC Championship Game against the Seahawks this Sunday.

Diversity Hiring Consideration

In compliance with the Rooney Rule, the Browns must interview at least one more diverse candidate before finalizing their decision. This requirement adds an extra layer of complexity to their hiring process.

Candidate Profiles

While the Browns remain optimistic about their four finalists, they have contrasting levels of experience among them:

• Jim Schwartz (59) – Veteran coach known for defensive prowess
• Todd Monken (59) – Experienced offensive strategist
• Grant Udinski (30) – Young candidate with fresh ideas
• Nate Scheelhaase (35) – Another promising young talent

The possibility exists for Monken to take the head coach role, while Schwartz could stay on as defensive coordinator. Alternatively, the Browns might pursue a younger candidate as head coach and retain Schwartz in his current role. There’s also a chance that Schwartz could be appointed head coach, leading to the hiring of one of the three offensive candidates as coordinator.

Conclusion

The Browns face important decisions ahead as they continue their search for a new head coach. The developments around Mike McDaniel and potential candidates will undoubtedly shape the team’s future direction.