Mike McDaniel Pulls Out of Browns Coaching Search

It seems clear that Mike McDaniel will definitely take on a head coaching role with another AFC team next season—but this time, it’s his decision.

According to NFL Network, the former Dolphins coach has withdrawn his name from consideration for the Browns’ head coaching position. Tom Pelissero shared this update on Tuesday night.

Pelissero mentioned that McDaniel is still in the running for roles with both the Ravens and the Raiders. Additionally, he’s interviewing for the offensive coordinator position with the Chargers. Notably, he had previously sought the same role with the Buccaneers, as he remains one of the most talked-about offensive minds in the current coaching carousel.

Cleveland.com also reported that McDaniel had been slated for a second interview with the Browns but opted out before it took place.

McDaniel’s recent past includes being dismissed by the Dolphins after a season with a 7-10 record, which came after he had led the team to become the second-highest scoring team in the league just three seasons prior.

Meanwhile, the paper indicated that several candidates, including Ravens OC Todd Monken, Jaguars OC Grant Wudinsky, Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, and Rams passing game coordinator Nate Schielhaas, are lined up for second interviews with the Browns.

Additionally, Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz has already had his second interview with the team on Monday. Owner Jimmy Haslam recently expressed strong support for Schwartz, indicating a desire to keep him involved with the organization.

After firing Kevin Stefanski, who has now taken the head coaching position with the Falcons, Cleveland has entered its third week of searching for a new head coach. Stefanski, a two-time Coach of the Year, had a record of 45-56 over six seasons with the Browns, featuring two seasons with 11 wins. However, the team has struggled lately, with just eight wins over the last two years combined.