Mike McDaniel withdraws for Browns coaching search, Jesse Minter follows suit
At least two major candidates pulled out as Cleveland seeks a new coach
Jesse Minter is the latest candidate to remove himself from the running to be the Cleveland Browns' next head coach. The Los Angeles' Chargers defensive coordinator is not going forward Thursday's scheduled meeting with the Browns, according to Cleveland.com. Minter's decision comes after former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel withdrew his name from the team's coaching search.
McDaniel since accepted an offensive coordinator position with the Chargers if he does not land one of the league's other head coaching openings.
Minter's decision was likely based on his belief that he has other head coaching opportunities that are more certain, according to the report. He is, for example, considered to be a strong candidate for the Baltimore Ravens opening, which offers a roster that includes two-time MVP Lamar Jackson and future Hall of Fame running back Derrick Henry.
With Minter out of the running, the Browns will move ahead in their search to find their next coach. The team conducted second interviews with defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, former Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken, Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski and Los Angeles Rams passing game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase.
The Browns are in this position after firing Kevin Stefanski following a 5-12 campaign. Stefanski has since replaced Raheem Morris as the Atlanta Falcons' new head coach.
While they are one of the NFL's historic clubs, the Browns have struggled to remain relevant since they fired Bill Belichick after the 1995 season. Upon their return in 1999, the Browns have had just three winning seasons and two playoff appearances, both which came under Stefanski, who also led Cleveland to its first playoff win in over a quarter century.
Cleveland's current roster includes likely 2025 Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett, but it also has several serious question marks, including at quarterback with Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel and Deshaun Watson all under contract. Whoever becomes the next head coach will be tasked with determining which quarterback will be under center when the Browns being the 2026 season.
