The AFC North will look very different in 2026 than it has in a very long time. The Baltimore Ravens fired head coach John Harbaugh, who has since agreed to become the next head coach of the New York Giants. The Pittsburgh Steelers are also in the market for a new head coach after Mike Tomlin stepped down after 19 seasons under the headset. Additionally, the Cleveland Browns are in search of a new head coach after moving on from two-time Coach of the Year Kevin Stefanski.
With all three teams now in search for a new head coach, it makes sense that there will be some overlap between the teams and the candidates of whom they interview. However, there appears to be one in particular that has put these three teams in an arms race with each other.
Nate Scheelhaase has the Steelers, Browns, and Ravens in a tug of war
Los Angeles Rams pass game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase is a name that has shot up the list of top candidates this cycle, and the AFC North teams all seem to want him on their respective staffs. Scheelhaase will meet with all three teams on Friday ahead of the rams' divisional round playoff game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday night.
Scheelhaase began his coaching career at the University of Illinois as an offensive assistant and running backs coach. He then went to Iowa State, where he was on Matt Campbell's staff from 2018-23, the final season serving as the Cyclone's offensive coordinator. He joined the Rams staff in 2024.
More NFL news:
Jaguars should go all in on Maxx Crosby trade with Las Vegas Raiders
Ravens $19 million All-Pro labeled top cut candidate ahead of new league year
Chargers sign former Ravens offensive lineman after injury-riddled season
Broncos defender pokes the bear, takes unprompted jab at Josh Allen
Steelers frustrated $48 million star could help Chiefs solve Travis Kelce problem