The Cleveland Browns’ coaching search is starting to take shape, even if the team is still navigating the early stages of the process due to the Rooney Rule. While no official hires can be made just yet, the front office appears to be narrowing its focus - and that means some early candidates may already be out of the running.
One name to watch is Dan Pitcher, the Cincinnati Bengals’ offensive coordinator. While the Browns haven’t scheduled a second interview with him, Pitcher’s name is still making the rounds across the league - and not just for head coaching roles.
According to reports, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor has given Pitcher the green light to explore other opportunities, particularly those that would give him full play-calling responsibilities. That’s a key distinction.
In Cincinnati, Taylor handles the play-calling duties, leaving Pitcher with a more limited role despite his coordinator title. But with teams like the Buccaneers now set to interview him for their vacant OC role - one that would come with the keys to the offense - Pitcher’s name is gaining traction.
So where does that leave Cleveland?
Well, even if Pitcher isn’t in the running for the Browns’ top job, he could still be a name to revisit once the head coach is in place - especially if that coach is open to handing over play-calling duties. The Browns are reportedly losing offensive coordinator Tommy Rees to the Falcons, which opens up a major spot on the offensive staff. Depending on who ends up leading the team, Pitcher could be a logical fit for that role.
It’s not hard to see why he’s drawing interest. Pitcher was instrumental in Joe Burrow’s development during his time as quarterbacks coach from 2020 to 2023, before being promoted to offensive coordinator last year.
Even with Burrow sidelined for a significant chunk of the season, the Bengals’ offense held its own. Cincinnati finished sixth in the league in passing yards per game (235.6), ranked 12th in scoring (24.4 points per game), and cracked the top five in third-down conversion rate (45.4%).
That’s not just solid production - that’s the kind of consistency that gets coaches noticed.
Pitcher’s résumé shows a coach who’s climbed the ranks, earned his stripes, and is ready for a bigger spotlight. Whether that next step comes in Tampa Bay, Cleveland, or somewhere else remains to be seen, but his trajectory suggests it’s only a matter of time.
As for the Browns’ head coaching search, it appears Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski is emerging as a frontrunner. Udinski doesn’t currently call plays in Jacksonville - that responsibility falls to Jaguars head coach Liam Coen - but he’s been credited with helping shape the team’s offensive identity. If Cleveland goes with Udinski, or if they pivot to a defensive-minded candidate like Jim Schwartz, the need for a play-calling offensive coordinator becomes even more pressing.
That’s where someone like Pitcher could re-enter the conversation. If the Browns hire a head coach who’s willing to delegate the offense, Pitcher’s name should be near the top of the list. He’s already proven he can help build a high-functioning passing attack, even under less-than-ideal circumstances.
So while the Browns’ coaching picture is still coming into focus, don’t be surprised if Dan Pitcher’s name pops up again - whether it’s for the head job or as the architect of the next Browns offense.