The Cleveland Browns' head coaching search just got a lot more interesting. With Mike McCarthy snagging the Steelers job, Nate Scheelhaase’s options have narrowed, leaving the Browns as his only remaining NFL suitor—for now. But here’s where it gets controversial: is the 35-year-old Rams pass-game coordinator ready to lead an NFL team, or are the Browns better off going with experience? Scheelhaase, a former dual-threat quarterback at Illinois, brings a unique perspective to the table, especially as the Browns aim to develop young quarterbacks like Shedeur Sanders. And this is the part most people miss: his work under Sean McVay has positioned him as a rising star, much like Zac Taylor and Liam Coen before him.
Scheelhaase is one of four candidates interviewing for a second time with the Browns, alongside defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken, and Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski. Scheelhaase’s interview is set for Monday, fresh off the Rams’ NFC Championship Game against the Seahawks. Interestingly, the Browns are willing to fly to Los Angeles for the meeting, which also counts as one of their Rooney Rule interviews for diverse candidates.
But the clock is ticking. If Scheelhaase makes it to the Super Bowl on February 8, the Browns would have to wait until after the game to finalize any deal. Meanwhile, the Raiders remain a potential option for him, though it’s unclear if they’ll bring him in for a second interview. The Browns, however, seem to be leaning toward hiring a young, offensive-minded coach, with Scheelhaase and Udinski—who turned 30 in January—emerging as frontrunners.
Here’s the twist: Udinski, if hired, would become the youngest head coach in NFL history, surpassing Sean McVay. Both he and Scheelhaase lack NFL play-calling experience, but their innovative offensive minds have the Browns intrigued. Meanwhile, Schwartz and Monken, both 59, remain in the mix, with Schwartz’s defensive success making him a strong contender to stay on as coordinator if he’s not promoted.
The Browns’ offensive struggles—ranking 30th in total offense in 2025—have many wondering if an offensive-minded coach is the answer. Monken’s work with Lamar Jackson in Baltimore is impressive, but Scheelhaase and Udinski’s ties to the McVay coaching tree could bring the explosive offense the Browns desperately need.
But here’s the real question: Should the Browns gamble on unproven talent or play it safe with experience? Schwartz, despite a rocky head coaching stint with the Lions, has a Super Bowl win under his belt and strong support from players like Myles Garrett. Yet, the Browns might prioritize an offensive overhaul, making Monken or one of the younger candidates more appealing.
The Browns must also navigate Rooney Rule requirements, needing to interview at least two diverse candidates. Speculation suggests they may have already conducted a secret interview with a college coach to avoid disrupting their season. If compliant, they could hire Scheelhaase as early as Monday—if he’s out of the playoffs.
As the Browns weigh their options, one thing is clear: their 19th head coach could be named as soon as next week. But who will it be? And more importantly, will it be the right choice? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do the Browns need a seasoned veteran or a fresh, innovative voice to turn things around?
