The Cleveland Browns are currently navigating a pivotal phase in their franchise history, specifically entering the second week of a crucial 120-day period that could potentially revitalize the team. As part of this process, they are actively scheduling interviews for the head coaching position.
This week is set to feature an interview with Mike McDaniel, who was recently let go after a four-year stint as the head coach of the Miami Dolphins. Additionally, General Manager Andrew Berry has sought permission to interview Jesse Minter, the defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers. This meeting may take place as early as this week, contingent on the outcome of the Chargers’ playoff game against the New England Patriots tonight.
Moreover, the Browns are eagerly anticipating whether they will be among the select few teams—three to four—that John Harbaugh is considering for interviews. Harbaugh is known for his impressive coaching record, and it is expected that any organization he chooses will be vying earnestly for his expertise.
In a recent development, Berry has introduced another potential candidate: Nate Scheelhaase. Currently serving as the pass game coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams, Scheelhaase has only recently entered his second season in this role, having previously worked as an offensive assistant and pass game specialist during the 2024 season.
Before joining the Rams, Scheelhaase dedicated six years to various positions within the Iowa State football program, culminating in his role as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach in 2022. His experience includes coaching running backs and wide receivers, and overseeing the run game coordinator duties from 2021 to 2022. Notably, he had also focused exclusively on coaching the receivers for two seasons (2019-20) and the running backs for one season (2018).
Berry's interest in Scheelhaase is particularly intriguing, especially since he has primarily been associated with coordinator roles, particularly with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, rather than head coaching opportunities. This could indicate that the Browns are looking to gain insights from Scheelhaase regarding their offensive challenges. He has garnered praise for his ability to assess successful concepts across the NFL, as noted by Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur, who remarked on Scheelhaase’s keen insight and adaptability to evolving trends in the league. LaFleur stated, "He’s a smart dude. One, he’s incredibly efficient with finding stuff around the league and what people are doing and keeping up with the times, which is so important. He’s just eager to not just know what we’re doing or what the Houston Texans defense is doing, but he’s eager to know what the landscape of the league is, and that’s a big factor."
While it might seem ambitious for someone with just two years as an assistant coach to step directly into a head coaching role, engaging in discussions with Scheelhaase to hear his perspective could prove beneficial for the Browns. However, caution is warranted, considering the concerns from the media and fanbase regarding the hiring of exceptionally intelligent individuals.
The Rams triumphed in their Wild Card playoff match against the Carolina Panthers on Saturday night, which means the Browns would be able to conduct a virtual interview with Scheelhaase starting Tuesday at the earliest. In-person interviews for any coaches still under contract can commence on January 19.
What are your thoughts on Nate Scheelhaase as a potential head coaching choice? We’d love to hear your opinions in the comments!
