The Cleveland Browns are casting a wide net to replace Kevin Stefanski as head coach, but a name that has generated a lot of buzz over the last 48-hours is Nate Scheelhaase.
Following a disappointing 5-12 season, the Browns are desperate for a boost to their lethargic offense. Could they have found it in the man behind the NFL’s most explosive passing attack in 2025?
Here are five things every Browns fan needs to know about the 35-year-old coaching prodigy and L.A. Rams pass game coordinator.
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1. Architect of the Rams’ 2025 Aerial Assault: As L.A.'s pass game coordinator this past season, Scheelhaase oversaw a unit that finished at the top of nearly every statistical category. Under his guidance, Los Angeles was the only team in the NFL to average over 30 points per game.
He is credited with modernizing Sean McVay's system by integrating advanced pre-snap motions that often left opposing defenses in a panic.
2. The Stafford & Nacua Connection: Scheelhaase’s rise in popularity is directly tied to the historic production of his star players. Under his guidance, Matthew Stafford was No. 1 in the league in both passing yards (4,707), and touchdowns (46).
He also elevated Puka Nacua into a First-Team All-Pro, helping the wideout lead the NFL in receptions with 129.
3. A Record-Breaking Dual-Threat QB: Scheelhaase isn't just a student of the game; he was a prolific playmaking quarterback in college.
He's a legend at the University of Illinois, where he finished his career as the school’s all-time leader in total offense. The Kansas City, MO native is still one of only two players in Big Ten history to throw for over 8,000 passing yards and run for 2,000 yards. This background can help him relate to the dual-threat demands placed on modern NFL quarterbacks.
4. The "Boy Genius" of the McVay Coaching Tree: The NFL remains obsessed with Sean McVay’s assistants, and Scheelhaase is the latest "branch" to bloom.
After a successful stint as the offensive coordinator at Iowa State, McVay personally recruited him to the Rams in February 2024. McVay recently described him as "one of the brightest minds in football," and NFL insiders suggest he is being groomed for an immediate transition to a head coaching role.
5. "Fastest Riser" in the 2026 Cycle: While the Browns are also looking at established names like John Harbaugh and Mike McDaniel, Scheelhaase is the wildcard of the head coach hunting season.
He is fresh off a 34-31 Wild Card victory over the Carolina Panthers this past Saturday. With the Las Vegas also requesting an interview on Sunday, the Browns are moving quickly to make sure they get to know one of the hottest candidates on the market.
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