Why the Browns must hire a ‘complete culture changer’ to save the franchise

Andy McNamara

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Why the Browns must hire a ‘complete culture changer’ to save the franchise image

The Cleveland Browns are at a dangerous crossroads.

After firing two-time NFL Coach of the Year Kevin Stefanski, and a chaotic 5-12 campaign, the front office appears to be settling for a "coin flip" between young coordinators Grant Udinski and Nate Scheelhaase. According to 92.3 The Fan’s Daryl Ruiter, that path leads straight to more frustrating instability.

"This franchise does not need an up-and-comer. They need a complete culture changer," Ruiter argued on Cleveland sports radio. "Grant Udinski doesn't have that resume. Nate Scheelhaase doesn't have that resume."

Grant Udinski

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The debate in Cleveland has shifted from choosing the best candidate to pure survival.

After heavyweights like Mike McDaniel and Jesse Minter already withdrawing from consideration, Ruiter suggests the Browns are "kneecapping" their own search by trying to force-feed an undesirable front office structure. It's back to the dreaded "collaboration" term that saw GM Andrew Berry have control over quarterback decisions instead of the head coach.

If Andrew Berry and Jimmy Haslam want to save the 2026 season, they must stop looking for the next "innovator" and start looking for a credibility hire.

Whether it's a veteran like Sean McDermott, Mike McCarthy or an established leader who can command a locker room begging for discipline. That person may already be in the building in DC Jim Schwartz who had several of his defensive stars publicly vouch for him.

Time is running out for the Browns as other HC vacancies continue to get filled around the league. The fear for fans is that this franchise is looking like they'll get whoever is left over, instead of a top choice.

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Staff Writer