Who'll Be Browns' Next OC? (NFL)
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Who'll Be Browns' Next OC?

George Walker IV / Tennessean.com / USA TODAY NETWORK
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The Cleveland Browns relieved offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt of his duties, according to various reports. Head coach Kevin Stefanski is making notable changes to his offensive staff. Running backs coach Stump Mitchell and tight ends coach T.C. McCartney were also let go.

The shakeup arrives mere days after the Browns were defeated 45-14 by the Houston Texans on wild-card weekend. Browns quarterback Joe Flacco threw two pick-six touchdowns in the blowout loss. Cleveland's offense managed just 324 total yards of offense.

The Browns started five different quarterbacks throughout the 2023 season. They lost starting running back Nick Chubb and starting quarterback Deshaun Watson to season-ending injuries and finished 17th in total yards gained per game (335.9), and 10th in points scored per contest (23.3). The next offensive coordinator will be tasked with maximizing Watson's production. We've swiftly identified three candidates.

TIM KELLY, TITANS OC

Titans offensive coordinator Tim Kelly is still technically employed by the franchise. General manager Ran Carthon has permitted the assistant coaches to interview elsewhere while the team conducts its search for Mike Vrabel's successor, however. Kelly is unlikely to be retained by the next head coach given that he’s a Vrabel disciple through and through.

Kelly would represent an intriguing hire because he once had Watson playing the best football of his career. Watson's most productive seasons occurred with the Houston Texans between 2018 and 2020. Kelly was the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. The Browns are heavily invested in Watson, who has yet to meet expectations after signing a $230 million fully guaranteed contract. Hiring Kelly would be in Watson's best interest.

DARRELL BEVELL, DOLPHINS PASSING GAME COORDINATOR

Darrell Bevell is a veteran offensive coach who's served as the offensive coordinator for four different teams. Bevell is currently the quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator for the Miami Dolphins. He's rehabilitated his reputation as a potential OC and play-caller throughout his time in Miami. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was a legitimate candidate for MVP and Comeback Player of the Year honors this season.

Bevell and Stefanski are also very familiar with each other. Bevell previously spent five seasons (2006-10) as the Minnesota Vikings' offensive coordinator. Stefanski worked under Bevell as an assistant to the head coach and quarterbacks coach throughout that period. Bevell is a worthy candidate in Cleveland.

ERIC BIENIEMY, COMMANDERS OC

Eric Bieniemy isn't expected to return to the Washington Commanders in 2024 after spending 2023 as Ron Rivera's offensive coordinator and assistant head coach. The Commanders have a new general manager in Adam Peters. Peters is conducting a thorough search for Rivera's replacement. Washington appears to be targeting an offensive-minded coach who would likely appoint his own staff.

Before becoming Andy Reid's trusted assistant in Kansas City, Bieniemy spent five seasons (2006-10) on the same Vikings staff as Stefanski, working as a running backs coach and assistant head coach. Bienimey's tough-love approach may be what Watson requires to get his career back on track. If Stefanski opts for familiarity, Bieniemy could top his list.

BONUS CANDIDATE: BILL MUSGRAVE, BROWNS SENIOR ASSISTANT

Stefanski could simply hire from within by promoting senior offensive assistant Bill Musgrave. The 56-year-old Musgrave has plenty of experience as an offensive coordinator. He spent three seasons (2011-13) as the Vikings' offensive coordinator while Stefanski was climbing the ranks as their quarterbacks coach.



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