The interminable process known as the Browns’ most recent coaching search may finally be nearing its long-overdue end. Reports have surfaced that the Browns front office has invited Buffalo Bills defensive coordinator Mike Pettine back for a third interview, which would seem to mark him as the undeniable favorite for the job. Other names that have been recently connected to the job are Seahawks defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, Falcons offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter, and former Buccaneers head coach Greg Schiano. However, none of these candidates seem to be likely ones for the job at this point.
First of all, Koetter is supposedly seen as a long shot for the job. As for Quinn and Schiano, reports from the NFL Network state that Quinn currently doesn’t have anything set up with the Browns, and after an interview with the Browns today, Schiano will not be hired. What with the withdrawals of Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels and Broncos offensive coordinator Adam Gase from the running, it seems apparent that Pettine is not only the most likely candidate for the job but also the ONLY likely candidate for the job (as it stands now).
We’ll have to wait and see how things develop after this third interview. However, barring any unexpected developments, Mike Pettine appears to be the hands-down favorite to become the next head coach of the Cleveland Browns.
UPDATE: According to ESPN, another unknown finalist for the job will meet with the Browns’ front office tomorrow along with Bills DC Mike Pettine.
