The Cleveland Browns have endured plenty of uncertainty heading into the 2026 season. Questions surround the coaching staff, the quarterback room, and now even the direction owner Jimmy Haslam wants to take the franchise.

Fans have already grown frustrated with Todd Monken and Deshaun Watson after Cleveland’s disappointing start. Haslam has also faced criticism from supporters who want significant changes across the organization.

Now, Tony Rizzo has revealed a fascinating plan that could change the conversation around Cleveland. Speaking on ESPN Cleveland, Rizzo claimed Haslam remains interested in bringing Nick Saban into the organization.

“I heard Jimmy is not done going after Nick Saban. Now Nick wouldn't coach but he would have some kind of role. And to combine him with Arch Manning.”

According to Rizzo, Saban would not return as Cleveland’s head coach. Instead, the legendary college coach could take another role while the Browns potentially pursue Texas quarterback Arch Manning. The report remains a rumor rather than an announced Browns plan, but it has already created plenty of attention around the franchise.

The idea would certainly give Haslam an opportunity to change the conversation surrounding the Browns. Saban spent four seasons as Cleveland’s defensive coordinator in the 1990s, while Manning remains one of the most closely watched quarterback prospects in college football.

Jimmy Haslam Stood Behind the Decision to Start Deshaun Watson

Haslam’s current quarterback situation looks very different from the potential future Rizzo described. Cleveland chose Watson over Shedeur Sanders for Week 1, with Monken saying Watson gave the team its best chance to move the ball and score.

However, Watson struggled badly in the opener, while Sanders remains waiting for his opportunity. That has only increased the pressure surrounding Cleveland’s quarterback plans.

Now, the Browns face questions about whether Watson can remain their long-term answer. If Haslam truly wants to reshape the franchise, the Saban and Manning rumors could represent an entirely different direction for Cleveland.

Written by

Joseph Nithin