The Browns couldn’t land the college coach they were after a year ago, so now they’re looking at more of them.
According to Jason LaCanfora of CBSSports.com, the Browns are interested in interviewing Auburn coach Gus Malzahn and Vanderbilt’s James Franklin, in addition to a planned meeting with Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels.
A year ago, they whiffed in their pursuit of Oregon’s Chip Kelly, who has worked out nicely in Philadelphia. That has likely emboldened them to look to the college ranks again.
Malzahn has no NFL experience, so would need some established help, The report suggests the Browns are looking at former Lions coach Jim Schwartz as a possibility as a defensive coordinator.
Franklin spent one year as the Packers wide receivers coach, and has interned with a few NFL teams before making a names for himself as a college offensive coordinator at Kansas State and Maryland.
A few NFL assistants have balked at the chance to interview, with Broncos offensive coordinator Adam Gase and Arizona defensive coordinator Todd Bowles indicating a lack of interest.