ClevelandBrownsCommunity
Subscribe

CINCINNATI, OH - JANUARY 04: Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders 12 during the game against the Cleveland Browns and the Cincinnati Bengals on January 4, 2026, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, OH. Photo by Ian Johnson/Icon Sportswire NFL, American Football Herren, USA JAN 04 Browns at Bengals EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon260104110

Jan 24, 2026, 5:24 AM CUT

35-Year-Old NFL Head Coach Could Be Shedeur Sanders’ Only Hope for 2026

Shedeur Sanders thinks he's ready, but there's lingering uncertainty about the QB1 role for next season. The Browns could solve that with a single signing.

Sanders has a chance at retaining his position if the Browns hire Nathan Scheelhaase, as pointed out by NFL reporter Tyler Erzbeger. The 35-year-old is rumored to be getting a second interview with the team.

“While every team wants to find the perfect protege of McVay, Scheelhaase might actually be the one. Only 35, if he goes to the right team, could be their next head coach for the next two decades-plus,” Erzbeger opined.

A former college-level quarterback and Rams’ offensive coordinator, he was trained under Sean McVay. In the two seasons he spent with the Rams since 2024, he worked as an offensive assistant and a pass game specialist.

More importantly, he revived Stafford for another season. He went from a 20-touchdown season to scoring 46 in this season. Under Scheelhaase, Sanders could develop into a franchise QB. There are already talks of bringing a new QB to reinforce the lineup. Sanders needs to cement his spot.

Even Sean McVay couldn't help but praise Scheelhaase. "There's an ability to own the game from an all-22 perspective. He's excellent. I've really enjoyed working with him. He's a great person, first and foremost, and he has a great family. He's been outstanding, working with the receivers, but he has a tremendous impact on our team and our group as a whole."

Just this season, he helped rookie Puka Nacua reach 1715 yards with 10 touchdowns. The Browns have multiple offensive rookie players. Scheelhaase could be the perfect option to develop them. But the Browns need to move fast.

Two Divisional Rivals Are Gunning For Scheelhaase Before the Cleveland Browns Can Interview Him

The Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens have already interviewed Nathan Scheelhaase. And according to insiders, the Steelers interview went well.

For now, the Browns will interview Scheelhaase after the Rams complete their NFC Championship game, but even then, they may not be able to sign him. That's because they still haven't fulfilled their Rooney Rule requirements.

At the moment, finding a head coach should be the top priority. John Harbaugh has taken the Giants job. Mike McDaniel looks set for the Chargers, and Tommy Rees is leaving for Atlanta. If the Browns don't make a move quickly, they may be forced to settle for a coach instead of getting one they want.

Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar