Mike McDaniel Steps Away from Cleveland Browns HC Search
After parting ways with the Miami Dolphins, former head coach Mike McDaniel has been actively exploring new opportunities. Initially viewed as a strong candidate for multiple offensive coordinator roles, McDaniel has also garnered attention for open head coaching positions across the NFL.
McDaniel has already interviewed for head coaching vacancies with the Las Vegas Raiders, Cleveland Browns, and Baltimore Ravens, while also considering offensive coordinator positions with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Los Angeles Chargers, and Detroit Lions.
However, as the Browns were preparing for a second interview with McDaniel, the offensive-minded coach made the decision to withdraw from the race. According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, McDaniel informed the Browns that he was no longer interested in pursuing their head coaching position ahead of the in-person interview scheduled for Wednesday.
Why McDaniel Stepped Back from Cleveland
McDaniel’s decision comes after considering the challenges the Browns face, particularly at the quarterback position. Cleveland’s uncertain quarterback situation involving Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders, and Dillon Gabriel, combined with the team’s ongoing salary cap issues for the 2026 NFL season, likely contributed to his decision to pass on the opportunity.
While McDaniel is evaluating offensive coordinator offers, his focus may be shifting toward teams with more appealing head coaching prospects. In Baltimore, McDaniel would have the opportunity to work with two-time NFL MVP Lamar Jackson, leading a team that consistently contends for playoff spots and has already secured a Super Bowl victory. On the other hand, the Raiders hold the first overall pick in the upcoming draft, which gives them a prime chance to select a top-tier quarterback to lead the franchise forward.
Las Vegas and Baltimore Look Like Stronger Fits
The Raiders, despite their current struggles, are poised to rebuild with a top draft pick, potentially selecting Fernando Mendoza, the standout quarterback from Indiana, who capped off an impressive season with a National Championship victory. McDaniel could see this as a promising opportunity to shape the team’s future around a fresh quarterback talent.
In comparison, the Browns’ quarterback situation remains clouded, which likely makes them a less attractive option for McDaniel, especially when weighed against the opportunities in Baltimore and Las Vegas.
Even if McDaniel ultimately doesn’t land one of these head coaching roles, he could still consider offensive coordinator positions in Los Angeles or Detroit. Coaching quarterbacks like Justin Herbert or Jared Goff could allow McDaniel to gain valuable experience before re-entering the head coaching market in the future.
Given these factors, McDaniel’s decision to withdraw from the Browns’ search seems understandable, as he weighs his options for a better fit.
