The Cleveland Browns are closing in on potential candidates to lead the franchise into a new era, and the focus has narrowed to two prominent names with NFL head coaching experience.
With a mix of veteran experience and rising star coordinators available, Cleveland appears poised to make a decisive choice that could shape the organization for years to come.
Mike McDaniel, former head coach of the Miami Dolphins, is high on the Browns‘ list of choices.
The Browns are expected to move aggressively in their pursuit of the 43-year-old offensive innovator, after the Detroit Lions hired Drew Petzing as their new offensive coordinator, where McDaniel was a high contender.
The Browns also advanced defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz to a second in-person interview for the head coaching position.
Schwartz, a seasoned NFL coach with a long track record, remains a strong option.
However, attention is increasingly turning to McDaniel, who will visit Berea on Wednesday for his first in-person meeting.
McDaniel previously served as the Browns‘ wide receivers coach in 2014.
McDaniel‘s time in Miami has only enhanced his appeal. He developed a high-powered offense around quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and superstar wide receiver Tyreek Hill while also nurturing talent like Jaylen Waddle and a corps of young running backs.
NFL analysts note that his ability to balance dynamic passing attacks with a stable running game makes him one of the most versatile offensive minds available.
A number of teams want McDaniel
Even as Cleveland courts him, McDaniel remains highly sought after. On Monday, he interviewed with the Las Vegas Raiders in Miami during the College Football National Championship, a visit designed to evaluate Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Baltimore Ravens and Tennessee Titans have also expressed interest, each looking to fill a head coaching vacancy.
Reports indicate that McDaniel is “very open” to finding the right coordinator role if a head coaching position does not immediately materialize.
Both the Philadelphia Eagles and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are pursuing him for coordinator positions, providing potential pathways to leadership should the current head coaches in those organizations move on.
The Browns seem especially interested in rising talents like Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski, whose initial virtual meeting reportedly lasted three hours.
The team may also explore an interview with Sean McDermott, who was recently let go by the Buffalo Bills.
The Browns‘ approach reflects a strategy of blending experience with potential, evaluating candidates who can bring immediate stability while offering the possibility of long-term growth.
