The Cleveland Browns' head coach search is sending shockwaves through the NFL, with two names – Nate Scheelhaase and Grant Udinski – generating serious buzz. But here's the kicker: neither has called plays in the NFL. Can these young guns truly lead an NFL team?
Sources at cleveland.com reveal that Scheelhaase, 35, the current pass game coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams, and Udinski, 30, the offensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars, are highly sought-after candidates. Their names are popping up in conversations around the league, signaling that they're on the fast track to becoming head coaches.
Scheelhaase's connection to Rams coach Sean McVay is a major selling point. He's spent the last two seasons learning from one of the brightest offensive minds in the game. Before his NFL coaching career, Scheelhaase was a star quarterback at the University of Illinois for four seasons. As a dual-threat QB, he racked up impressive numbers, throwing for 8,568 yards and 55 touchdowns, and rushing for 2,066 yards and 19 more scores. He and Antwaan Randle El are the only 2 players in Big Ten history with over 8,000 passing yards and 2,000 rushing yards in their collegiate career.
And this is the part most people miss: Scheelhaase wasn't just good; he was a winner. He led the Illini to back-to-back bowl game victories, a feat unmatched in the program's history. He finished his college career as Illinois' all-time leader in total offense with 10,634 yards, placing him seventh in Big Ten history. In his senior year, he topped the conference in passing yards (272.7 per game) and completion percentage (66.7%).
Fast forward to 2025, and Scheelhaase played a key role in Matthew Stafford's NFL MVP season, where Stafford led the league in passing yards (4,707) and touchdowns (46). McVay has consistently praised Scheelhaase, highlighting his leadership, understanding of the game, and ability to connect with players. He's been described as "the next Sean McVay," known for his offensive creativity and innovative play designs.
If the Browns miss out on hiring Scheelhaase as head coach, could they potentially snag him as their offensive coordinator? It's a possibility, especially if Jim Schwartz gets promoted to head coach. However, competition is fierce, with the Steelers, Raiders, and Ravens all showing interest. He might land a head coaching job this year, even if it seems a bit premature. Scheelhaase had a virtual interview with the Browns and could secure a second interview soon.
Udinski, who just turned 30, interviewed with the Browns virtually as well. If hired, he'd be the youngest head coach in NFL history. While it might seem early in his career, Udinski possesses the commanding presence, football intelligence, and leadership skills required for the job. He's gained experience under McVay disciples Kevin O'Connell (Vikings coach) and Liam Cohen (Jaguars coach), making him well-versed in the "McVay Way" of offensive football.
Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence thrived under Udinski's guidance, having one of his best seasons. Lawrence praised Udinski's preparation, attention to detail, and game-planning abilities.
Both Scheelhaase and Udinski may receive second interviews, depending on how the Browns' interviews with Jim Schwartz and Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken go.
But here's where it gets controversial... Could the Browns potentially be overlooking more experienced candidates in favor of these unproven, albeit promising, young coaches? Is potential enough to gamble on a head coaching hire?
Adding another layer to the coaching carousel, Browns OC Tommy Rees could potentially join Kevin Stefanski, wherever Stefanski lands. Stefanski is interviewing for head coaching positions with multiple teams. Rees has expressed his loyalty to Stefanski, stating that he came to Cleveland specifically to work for him. It is expected that Rees will garner interest from other teams for coordinator positions, including the Chargers and Lions. John Harbaugh, recently hired by the Giants, also has a high regard for Rees. Other Browns assistants might also follow Stefanski, depending on who the Browns hire as their new head coach and who that coach wants to retain.
If Todd Monken doesn't land the Browns job, he's likely to join John Harbaugh as the offensive coordinator for the Giants. The Browns haven't scheduled a second interview with former Dolphins coach Mike McDonald yet, but plan to interview some of the younger candidates again, especially since the initial interviews were virtual.
The Browns also have to adhere to the Rooney Rule, which requires them to interview two minority candidates in person before making a head coaching hire.
The Browns were among the teams that spoke with John Harbaugh before he ultimately chose to interview with the Giants. While Harbaugh, a lifelong Browns fan, was intrigued by the opportunity in Cleveland, he ultimately decided to pursue the job in New York.
What do you think, Browns fans? Are you excited about the potential of Scheelhaase and Udinski, or do you prefer a more experienced head coach? And what about Tommy Rees – should the Browns try to keep him, or is it time for a fresh start? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
