Why did Mike McDaniel withdraw from the Browns head coach search?

The article states Mike McDaniel unexpectedly withdrew his name from consideration, contributing to the chaos in the Browns' coaching search.

What is the Rooney Rule and how does it affect the Browns?

The Rooney Rule requires teams to interview minority candidates for head coach and other key positions. McDaniel's exit complicated the Browns' compliance with this rule.

Who is the remaining minority candidate for the Browns' head coach job?

As of January 21st, 2026, Nate Scheelhaase is the only remaining minority candidate for the Browns' head coach position.

Home / Sports / Browns Coaching Search in Chaos After McDaniel Pulls Out

Browns Coaching Search in Chaos After McDaniel Pulls Out

21 Jan

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Summary

Mike McDaniel withdrew his name from consideration for the Browns' head coach position.
McDaniel's exit creates a significant issue for the Rooney Rule compliance.
Nate Scheelhaase is now the only minority candidate left for an interview.

Browns Coaching Search in Chaos After McDaniel Pulls Out

The Cleveland Browns' pursuit of a new head coach has encountered significant turbulence. In a surprising turn of events on Tuesday, January 21st, 2026, Mike McDaniel withdrew his name from consideration for the head coaching position.

McDaniel's decision presents a threefold problem for the Browns. Firstly, he possessed head coaching experience and was a potential candidate for the job. Secondly, the public nature of his withdrawal, occurring just before a scheduled second interview, fuels concerns about the team's ongoing struggles with past issues. Thirdly, McDaniel was slated to be one of two minority candidates interviewed, a crucial step for meeting the Rooney Rule requirements.

Following McDaniel's withdrawal, Nate Scheelhaase remains the only candidate who fulfills the minority interview requirement. This means the Browns must now conduct an in-person interview with Scheelhaase, who is not considered a leading contender. Scheelhaase is available for an interview no earlier than Monday, January 26th, 2026. The timing of this situation, coinciding with McDaniel's interviews with the Los Angeles Chargers, raises questions about his future plans.