The Cleveland Browns’ offseason continues to be anything but quiet, with a flurry of coaching developments, quarterback speculation, and front office intrigue dominating headlines. Let’s break down where things stand in Cleveland as the franchise navigates a pivotal stretch that could shape its future for years to come.
Mike McDaniel Withdraws - A Major Blow to Browns’ Coaching Search
Just when it seemed like the Browns were zeroing in on top-tier coaching candidates, a major curveball hit: Mike McDaniel has reportedly withdrawn from consideration. The Miami Dolphins head coach had been scheduled for a second interview in Northeast Ohio, but now his exit from the process leaves Cleveland with more questions than answers.
McDaniel’s innovative offensive mind was considered a prime fit for a Browns team in need of a fresh direction. His sudden withdrawal narrows the field and adds a layer of urgency to the search. With other franchises already making hires, Cleveland can’t afford to fall behind in what’s quickly becoming a competitive coaching carousel.
Second Interviews Underway - But Uncertainty Looms
Despite the McDaniel setback, the Browns are pressing forward. The team has reportedly scheduled one second interview per day with remaining candidates, including names like Grant Udinski. Todd Monken, the Ravens’ offensive coordinator, has already completed his second interview, signaling that Cleveland is deep into the vetting process.
Still, there’s no clear frontrunner, and with John Harbaugh officially off the board, the Browns are navigating a shrinking pool of options. The front office’s ability to land the right leader will be critical-not just for the upcoming season, but for the long-term stability of the franchise.
Who’s Calling the Shots? GM vs. Ownership Debate Resurfaces
One of the lingering questions in this coaching search is who's ultimately making the call. Is this a general manager-led process, or is ownership taking the reins?
This isn’t the first time the Browns have faced this kind of power dynamic scrutiny. The structure behind the scenes matters, especially when it comes to aligning the new head coach with the front office's vision. A misalignment here could mean more turnover down the road-something Cleveland fans have seen far too often.
QB Room Shakeup? Shedeur Sanders Might Face Competition
The quarterback situation in Cleveland is also heating up. Shedeur Sanders is currently viewed as the likely starter, but that status may not be set in stone. Reports suggest the Browns could bring in competition via free agency, with Malik Willis emerging as a potential option.
While Sanders has shown flashes of promise, the team appears to be keeping its options open. One NFL source even believes Sanders may not be the starter next season. Whether that’s a motivational tactic or a genuine shift in strategy remains to be seen, but it’s clear the Browns aren’t handing out starting roles without a fight.
Rookie Standouts Get Recognition
Amid all the uncertainty, there’s some well-earned recognition for a pair of Browns rookies. Linebacker Carson Schwesinger has been named the PFWA’s Defensive Rookie of the Year, while defensive tackle Mason Graham earned a spot on the All-Rookie Team.
Both players were key contributors on a Browns defense that showed real grit this past season. Schwesinger’s sideline-to-sideline range and Graham’s dominance up front give Cleveland a young defensive core to build around-something any incoming head coach will be thrilled to inherit.
Wide Receiver Trade Rumors Swirl
Offensively, the Browns are reportedly exploring a big move at wide receiver. A.J. Brown and Brandon Aiyuk have surfaced as potential trade targets, signaling that Cleveland is looking to add a legitimate WR1 to elevate the passing game.
This move would make a lot of sense, especially if the team is planning to develop a young quarterback or push for a playoff run with a more experienced option. Either way, adding a dynamic playmaker on the outside could be a game-changer.
Todd Monken’s Candidacy Gaining Steam-But Is It Enough?
Monken’s second interview with the Browns has been completed, and his name continues to gain traction. He brings a wealth of experience and a creative offensive mind, having helped guide Baltimore’s attack in recent seasons.
But there’s a question lingering: will Monken’s background and philosophy align with what Cleveland needs right now? And with other candidates still in play, is he the top choice-or simply the most available?
Off-Field Drama: Browns Stadium Relocation Faces Legal Pushback
Off the field, the Browns’ proposed move to Brook Park is facing legal resistance. Former Cleveland Mayor Dennis Kucinich has filed a second lawsuit aiming to block the relocation, adding another layer of drama to an already chaotic offseason.
While the legal battle doesn’t directly impact the product on the field, it underscores the broader tension between the team and the city-a storyline worth monitoring as the situation develops.
QB Prospect Fernando Mendoza Drawing Mixed Reviews
Finally, there’s buzz around Fernando Mendoza, the college star who just wrapped up an undefeated season and a Heisman Trophy win. Despite his dominant play, not everyone is sold on his NFL readiness. Even Deshaun Watson’s own coach reportedly doesn’t see Mendoza as ready to make the leap to the pros.
It’s a reminder that college success doesn’t always translate immediately to the NFL-and that for a team like the Browns, who are still searching for long-term stability at quarterback, every evaluation matters.
Bottom Line: The Browns are in the thick of a critical offseason. The coaching search has hit some turbulence, the quarterback situation is far from settled, and the front office has major decisions looming at several key positions. But with young defensive talent emerging and potential upgrades on the horizon, there’s still plenty of reason for cautious optimism in Cleveland-if the right moves are made from here.