Another candidate has withdrawn his name from the Cleveland Browns’ head coaching search this offseason. However, for the first time this hiring cycle, one less name on the market represents good news for Jaguars fans. Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski has reportedly become the third high-profile candidate to remove himself from consideration for Cleveland’s open head coaching role.
Jaguars OC Grant Udinski has informed the Browns that he is removing himself from consideration for their HC position, per a source.
Udinski has a new deal in place with Jacksonville that will bump his pay for next season, but the Jaguars are allowing him to continue pursuing… pic.twitter.com/6CDaggeI4a
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 26, 2026
As reported by NFL insider Adam Schefter, Udinski is no longer in the running to become the Cleveland Browns’ next head coach after withdrawing his name from the pool of candidates.Udinski had recently emerged as a finalist for the role, alongside Rams passing game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase, Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, and Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken before ultimately removing himself from consideration.
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Former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel previously withdrew from consideration for the Browns’ (and Buffalo Bills’) head coaching searches, as did newly hired Baltimore Ravens head coach Jesse Minter.Despite a reported pay raise and a new contract to remain in Jacksonville through the 2026 season, the Jaguars are not yet out of the woods in their efforts to retain the 30-year-old coordinator. The Buffalo Bills completed their first interview with Udinski on Sunday for their open head coaching position.
It’s undoubtedly a smart (and savy) move for the young offensive mind to be deliberate about where he accepts his first head coaching opportunity. Given the Browns’ salary cap situation, front office makeup, and questionable roster outlook, it makes sense that Udinski would pass on the role until a more favorable landing spot becomes available. Additionally, removing himself does nothing but make him more valuable in future hiring cycles, indicating to future hiring organizations (such as the Bills) that they are also being interviewed for ideal fit. Only time will tell how the Buffalo opportunity unfolds, but for now, the development is good news for Udinski, and excellent news for Jacksonville across the board.
What say you, BigCatCountry? Will Udinski get the Bills role or will we see him donning the Duval Til We Die gear on the Jacksonville sidelines in 2026? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
