The Cleveland Browns are casting a wide net for candidates as the search for their next head coach continues. GM Andrew Berry has looked at unproven rising star candidates, but could the experienced route be the way to go?
A proven commodity. Someone who's led from NFL sidelines before. So far there are three veterans on the team's radar with a previous head coaching background.
John Harbaugh
The former Ravens cornerstone is the "big fish" of this cycle. After 18 seasons in Baltimore, his championship pedigree and AFC North toughness would be the culture change needed from the Kevin Stefanski era.
Pro: A "CEO-style" leader with a Super Bowl ring who understands what it takes to win the division better than anyone on the market.
Con: He reportedly demands total roster control and a massive $30 million annual commitment, which could clash with the current front office structure.
More: Ranking Browns head coach coordinator candidates: Why Grant Udinski and Dan Pitcher lead the pack
Mike McDaniel
The creative offensive strategy is McDaniel's greatest appeal. His Yale background matches the Ivy League past preferences of the Browns front office as well. The former Dolphins head coach could be the spark needed to jolt an offense that averaged the second fewest points per game in 2025.
Pro: A premier play-caller who led Miami to the No. 1 offense in the league at one time; he has a proven track record of elevating quarterback play.
Con: Questions remain about his 0-2 playoff record and whether his laid-back leadership style can navigate the high-pressure Cleveland environment.
Jim Schwartz
The architect of Cleveland’s elite defense has already interviewed and offers the "cleanest" transition. Promoting the 2023 Assistant Coach of the Year ensures Myles Garrett and the defense remain a top-five unit.
Pro: Total continuity; players like safety Grant Delpit and Pro Bowl corner Denzel Ward, have already "vouched" for his fiery leadership and intimate knowledge of the current roster.
Con: His previous head coaching stint in Detroit ended with a 29-52 record, leading to concerns about his ceiling as the primary decision-maker.
While John Harbaugh is the dream hire, recent reports suggest that the Giants and Falcons are frontrunners in landing him. This leaves Mike McDaniel as the favorite in some analyst circles to come back to Cleveland.
The most intriguing scenario currently being discussed is a "super-staff" where McDaniel takes the reins of the offense, and the team retains Jim Schwartz to keep the defense rolling.
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