The Cleveland Browns’ head coaching search has taken on a life of its own over the past few weeks-equal parts unpredictable and intriguing. While veteran defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz remains in the mix, the latest buzz points to a pair of rising offensive minds: Grant Udinski and Nate Scheelhaase. Neither has extensive NFL experience, but both have made strong impressions-and now, according to a recent report, they’re officially in the running as finalists to become the Browns’ next head coach.
This search has been anything but conventional, and that might be exactly what the Browns need.
Let’s start with what we know: both Udinski and Scheelhaase reportedly had standout first interviews. That’s no small feat considering the stakes-this isn’t just about filling a vacancy.
This is about setting the tone for the next chapter of Browns football. According to the report, Udinski is scheduled for a second interview Friday, while Scheelhaase, currently with the Rams, is expected to meet with the team again next week.
Now, here’s where things get interesting. The Browns are believed to be leaning toward a younger coach, someone who can grow with a roster full of emerging talent. That doesn’t mean they’re rushing the process or forcing a hire-it means they’re looking for the right fit, not just the most familiar name.
Udinski and Scheelhaase certainly fit the mold of what modern front offices are gravitating toward: energetic, innovative, and unafraid to challenge the status quo. At 30 and 35 years old respectively, they bring fresh offensive perspectives and a different kind of leadership profile than more traditional candidates.
That’s not without risk, of course. Between them, they have just eight years of NFL coaching experience.
But the upside? Potentially massive.
The Browns’ front office, led by GM Andrew Berry, has shown a willingness to think outside the box before. Berry himself was named VP of Player Personnel in Cleveland back in 2016 before he even turned 30. So it’s no surprise that he might be drawn to candidates who, like him, are ahead of the curve for their age.
That said, the Browns aren’t done interviewing. They’re expected to bring in at least one more candidate in the coming days, and they still need to satisfy the Rooney Rule before making a final decision.
But time is of the essence. Udinski is reportedly in the mix for the Bills’ head coaching job, and Scheelhaase has already met with the Ravens, Steelers, and Raiders.
If the Browns are serious about either one, they’ll need to move quickly.
Scheelhaase, for his part, has something of a historical precedent working in his favor. Despite being in just his second year under Sean McVay in Los Angeles, he’s part of a coaching tree that’s produced several successful young hires.
McVay himself was 30 when he got the Rams job, and since then, NFL teams have been chasing that kind of lightning in a bottle. Coaches like Mike Tomlin, Bill Cowher, and Jon Gruden all found success in their mid-30s.
Scheelhaase could be the next in line.
For the Browns, this isn’t just about a fresh face on the sideline. It’s about changing the narrative.
Since their return to the league in 1999, they’ve logged just one playoff win. Hiring a known quantity like Schwartz or Todd Monken-both respected, both nearing 60-might offer stability.
But it won’t spark a transformation. It won’t energize a fan base that’s been waiting for a true contender to emerge.
This coaching search is about more than just X’s and O’s. It’s about identity.
It’s about vision. And if the Browns believe Udinski or Scheelhaase can help unlock the full potential of a young, talented roster, then taking that leap might be exactly what this franchise needs.
The Browns have a chance to make a bold move. Now it’s just a matter of whether they’re ready to take it.