Cleveland Browns Compete for Coach Nate Scheelhaase
The Cleveland Browns are actively pursuing Nate Scheelhaase as their next head coach. Scheelhaase, currently an offensive assistant with the Los Angeles Rams, was interviewing for the Browns’ coaching vacancy in Los Angeles on Monday. During this interview, he received a request from the Buffalo Bills for a meeting regarding their own head coach opening.
Cleveland Browns’ Head Coaching Search
Nate Scheelhaase’s interview with the Browns began early Monday morning, continuing until approximately 3:30 p.m. PST. Reports from ESPN’s Adam Schefter indicated the Bills scheduled a meeting with him for later that night. The Browns are also considering other candidates, including Jim Schwartz and Todd Monken, should Scheelhaase not be hired.
Competition from the Buffalo Bills
The Bills are competing for Scheelhaase’s services, which adds a new layer of complexity to the Browns’ search. The Bills currently boast quarterback Josh Allen, the reigning NFL MVP. This makes their coaching position particularly appealing.
Interestingly, Scheelhaase has interviewed for several other head coaching positions recently. These include roles with the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens, both of which have since been filled. He also remains a candidate for the open head coaching job with the Las Vegas Raiders.
Coaching Qualifications and Background
Nate Scheelhaase, only 35 years old, is yet to serve as an NFL coordinator or play caller. However, he has gained valuable experience by closely working with established coaches like Sean McVay at the Rams. His performance as a passing game specialist saw the Rams achieve impressive offensive statistics.
- 10th in passing yards per game (227.5)
- 12th in yards per reception (11.2)
- 13th in completions (367)
During his first season, the Rams’ receiving core recorded just 15 drops, the sixth-fewest in the league. He was later promoted to Pass Game Coordinator, overseeing an impressive campaign where quarterback Matthew Stafford led the league with 4,707 passing yards and 46 touchdowns.
College Legacy
Before his NFL career, Scheelhaase played as a college quarterback for the University of Illinois. He finished with a remarkable record:
- All-time leader in total offense for Illinois (10,634 yards)
- Seventh in Big Ten history in total offense
- Completed his senior season leading the conference in passing yards and completion percentage
His ability to craft innovative offensive schemes has drawn comparisons to McVay, highlighting his potential as a future head coach.
The Path Forward
The Browns are now in a position to hire a new head coach any time after fulfilling the Rooney Rule through interviews with diverse candidates, including Scheelhaase and Anthony Lynn. The question remains whether the Bills can secure Scheelhaase or if the Browns will retain him for their coaching needs.
As the Browns finalize their decision, the football world will be watching closely to see who becomes the next leader for their franchise.
