The 2025-26 campaign exposed ongoing quarterback turmoil, with rookie Shedeur Sanders taking the snap and the team’s struggles carrying into the offseason, ultimately leading to the firing of coach Kevin Stefanski and a wide-reaching coaching search.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter listed the remaining candidates for Cleveland: defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, Rams passing game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase, Commanders run game coordinator Anthony Lynn, and former Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken. Udinski’s exit tightens the pool further.
Earlier frontrunners like Jesse Minter and Mike McDaniel had already stepped back, leaving the Browns in a delicate position as they pursue a long-term solution without a quick resolution.
Executives traveled to Los Angeles to meet Scheelhaase in person after the Rams’ playoff run ended, signaling progress in talks that were previously limited to phone conversations due to the Rams’ postseason commitments.
Among the remaining names, the league chatter suggests Cleveland is the only team with a clear, active interest in Scheelhaase, who would join a field that has shrunk as the process drags on.
With the list now shorter, Cleveland faces a critical window to finalize leadership and set a clear path for quarterback development as they head into the 2026 season. The outcome of these talks will shape the franchise’s direction in the near term.
