Candidate Nate Scheelhaase for Browns Head Coach: Key Insights Revealed
The Cleveland Browns are narrowing down their list of head coaching candidates, with Nate Scheelhaase emerging as a key contender. Aged 35, Scheelhaase is currently the passing game coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams and has already undergone an interview for the Browns’ coaching position.
Nate Scheelhaase: A Unique Coaching Candidate
If hired, Scheelhaase would make history as the first Browns head coach to have been named his state’s Gatorade Player of the Year during high school. His background and experience position him as a noteworthy candidate for this critical role.
Background and Early Career
- Origin: Scheelhaase grew up in Kansas City, Missouri, where he developed a passion for football as a lifelong Kansas City Chiefs fan.
- High School Achievements: He attended Rockhurst High School, where he excelled as a dual-sport athlete in football and basketball. He was awarded the 2007 Missouri Gatorade Player of the Year and the Thomas A. Simone Award.
- College Journey: Scheelhaase played college football at the University of Illinois, where he broke multiple records and was recognized as an Academic All-Big Ten honoree four times.
Coaching Pathway
After going undrafted in the 2014 NFL draft, Scheelhaase initially pursued a career in youth ministry. However, he soon transitioned back into football. He began coaching at his alma mater, Illinois, and later held positions at Iowa State, where he progressively climbed the coaching ladder.
In 2024, Scheelhaase joined the Rams as their passing game coordinator. Under his guidance, the Rams significantly improved their offensive statistics, finishing 2024 ranked 15th overall in the NFL.
Achievements and Offensive Performance
2024 Rams Offense
- Overall Ranking: 15th in the NFL
- Passing Yards: 4,096 yards (10th in the league)
- Touchdowns: 22 passing touchdowns (17th)
- Interceptions: 9 (7th least)
- Completion Percentage: 65.6% (14th)
2025 Rams Offense
- Overall Ranking: 1st in the NFL
- Passing Yards: 4,707 yards (2nd)
- Touchdowns: 46 passing touchdowns (1st)
- Interceptions: 8 (4th least)
- Completion Percentage: 64.9% (15th)
These statistics highlight Scheelhaase’s effectiveness as a coordinator, showcasing his ability to develop talent and enhance offensive production.
Next Steps for the Browns
The Browns have arranged a second interview with Scheelhaase, signaling strong interest in him joining their coaching staff. As an offensive-minded candidate, he could bring a fresh perspective to Cleveland’s struggling offense.
Whether Scheelhaase can successfully transition to head coach remains an open question. However, his proven track record at the Rams positions him as an exciting candidate for the Browns’ future.
