The Cleveland Browns are once again the center of attention in the NFL, but not for good reasons. Knowing that their rivals Pittsburgh Steelers have solidified their future after hiring Mike McCarthy, and the Baltimore Ravens have moved forward with Jesse Minter, the Browns still feel in a state of purgatory where they do not find a new soul that brings hopes and excitement back to Ohio.
Following the dismissal of Kevin Stefanski, the organization’s search for a successor has shifted from a professional endeavor into what fans are calling a “national laughingstock.” New reports regarding the requirements candidates are subjected to have left their fanbase feeling more embarrassed than ever.
Essays and personality tests made in Cleveland
According to NFL Network’sTom Pelissero, the Browns’ interview process is unlike any other in professional sports. Rather than focusing on style or philosophy, General Manager Andrew Berry and owner Jimmy Haslam are reportedly requiring candidates to complete these tasks beforehand:
- A multi-part essay detailing their coaching vision.
- A personality test to measure their psychological fit.
- Extensive homework assignments between the first and second rounds of interviews.
The front office reportedly defends this stance as a data-driven measure to find the perfect match, but that argument is not bought by their fans. Many wonder if any established coach would actually want the job given the extra work and headaches involved with the offer.
Browns’ fandom feel embarrassed
The disappointment feeling comes from a perceived lack of self-awareness by the Browns’ leadership. By treating potential candidates like entry-level applicants, the front office is signaling a dangerous level of micromanagement that historically leads to failure.
Furthermore, these “conditions” for the new coach are a bit restrictive. Candidates have allegedly been told they must keep certain members of the current staff, specifically defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, limiting the future coach’s ability to build their own culture. Not the best offer so far.
Additionally, the fans’ surprise is product of the visible issues the franchise has had with other coaches who walked away. According to reports, Mike McDaniel chose to take an offensive coordinator role with the Chargers rather than navigate Cleveland’s interview gauntlet, and John Harbaugh with Chris Shula also declined undergoing Browns’ coaching exam.
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