NFL Coaching Carousel Heats Up: Browns Cast Wide Net, Steelers Begin New Era
The Cleveland Browns are wasting no time in their search for a new head coach, and the list of candidates reflects a franchise exploring every angle-offensive innovation, defensive pedigree, and internal continuity.
Browns Interview Rams' Nate Scheelhaase
Nate Scheelhaase, the Los Angeles Rams’ passing game coordinator, is among the latest to interview for the Browns’ head coaching vacancy. It’s a notable rise for Scheelhaase, who’s helped orchestrate the NFL’s top-ranked passing offense this season with MVP candidate Matthew Stafford under center.
The Rams' aerial attack was as dynamic as it was efficient, and Scheelhaase's fingerprints were all over it. His ability to design route concepts and maximize quarterback play has clearly caught Cleveland’s attention.
Scheelhaase’s interview is part of a broader Browns strategy that includes both offensive and defensive minds. And speaking of defense…
Jesse Minter Also Meets with Cleveland
Jesse Minter, the Los Angeles Chargers’ defensive coordinator, also sat down with the Browns. Minter’s unit ranked fifth in total defense and ninth in scoring defense during the 2025 season-a testament to a group that consistently kept opponents in check, even when the offense struggled to find rhythm. While the Chargers bowed out in the wild-card round, Minter’s stock remains high, especially after a season where his defense played fast, physical, and fundamentally sound football.
This marks another stop on a busy tour for Minter, who’s become a hot name in coaching circles this offseason.
Jim Schwartz Gets Second Interview with Browns
Don’t sleep on the in-house option. Jim Schwartz, the Browns’ defensive coordinator since 2023, is getting a second interview for the head coaching job.
Schwartz brings head coaching experience to the table, having led the Detroit Lions from 2009 to 2013. He also coordinated the Eagles’ defense during their Super Bowl-winning 2017 season-a resume line that still carries weight.
Schwartz’s units in Cleveland have played with a trademark edge and discipline, and his familiarity with the roster could be a key factor. With Kevin Stefanski out after a 5-12 season, the Browns may be looking for a steady hand who already knows the building inside and out.
Steelers Begin Post-Tomlin Era, Hafley to Interview
The Pittsburgh Steelers are entering unfamiliar territory. For the first time since 2007, they’re in the market for a head coach following Mike Tomlin’s decision to step down after 19 seasons. Tomlin’s departure marks the end of an era defined by consistency, leadership, and playoff appearances.
Enter Jeff Hafley. The Green Bay Packers’ defensive coordinator is scheduled to interview with the Steelers on Jan.
- Hafley is no stranger to the interview circuit-this will be his sixth head coaching interview of the cycle.
He’s already met with the Falcons, Raiders, Titans, Dolphins, and Cardinals.
In just two seasons with Green Bay, Hafley has made a strong impression, helping shape a young defense into a cohesive, hard-hitting unit. His ability to connect with players and build culture makes him an intriguing candidate for a franchise that values stability and toughness.
Danny Smith Interviews with Buccaneers
Meanwhile, another longtime Steelers figure could be on the move. Danny Smith, Pittsburgh’s special teams coordinator for the past 13 years, interviewed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the same role. Smith, now 72, has led special teams units for four different NFL franchises and is widely respected for his detail-oriented approach and fiery sideline presence.
Should Smith leave, the Steelers would be looking to replace not just their head coach, but a key piece of their coaching infrastructure as well.
NFL Head Coaching Vacancies: The Full Picture
It’s been a busy offseason already, with nearly a third of the league in the market for a new head coach. Nine teams currently have vacancies:
- New York Giants (reportedly finalizing a deal with John Harbaugh)
- Pittsburgh Steelers
- Miami Dolphins
- Baltimore Ravens
- Arizona Cardinals
- Las Vegas Raiders
- Atlanta Falcons
- Cleveland Browns
- Tennessee Titans
With interviews happening daily and second rounds already underway, the coaching carousel is spinning fast. Teams are balancing experience with upside, scheme with leadership, and culture fit with innovation. And with so many franchises looking to turn the page, the decisions made in the coming days will shape the NFL landscape for years to come.