The Cleveland Browns are using an unusually intensive search process in order to find a replacement for Kevin Stefanski, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
Interviewing to be the Browns next head coach involves writing a multi-part essay and taking a personality test, Pelissero said in a Friday appearance on the Rich Eisen Show.
“The Browns’ search process and interview process, which they have run a number of times, is unlike any other in the NFL,” Pelissero said. “And it plays to certain types of candidates. They are a data-driven operation in Cleveland, and so they spend an extraordinary amount of time gathering data on their coaching candidates.
“You’re talking about taking a personality test. You’re talking about writing an essay. You’re talking about completing homework assignments going into both the first and the second rounds of interviews. It plays toward the types of candidates that they have in the mix.”
Pelissero’s comments come after both former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel and Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter reportedly declined to pursue interview opportunities with the Browns, per Pelissero and Cleveland.com’s Mary Kay Cabot.
McDaniel is now reportedly on track to join the Los Angeles Chargers as Jim Harbaugh’s offensive coordinator pending another head coaching opportunity, while Minter has been hired to replace John Harbaugh as the Baltimore Ravens’ next head coach.
NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported Wednesday that Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski and Los Angeles Rams pass game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase are considered “finalists” to take over in Cleveland.
The Browns’ head coaching search is being led by Andrew Berry, who joined the organization with Stefanski in 2020 but remained in Cleveland past the former head coach’s dismissal.
Former Las Vegas Raiders general manager Tom Telesco has also been involved in the search, including during in-person meetings with candidates, according to Schultz.