Reporting from Browns' writer Mary Kay Cabot cited the belief that Minter backed off because he saw other head coaching paths as more certain, certainly the Ravens, making him the second notable candidate (Mike McDaniel) this week to step out before a return trip to Cleveland.
Why Minter stepping away changes the Browns vibe fast
Minter, 42, has been on the rise for years, including time with the Baltimore Ravens staff from 2017 to 2020 and a decorated college run that helped fuel Michigan’s title surge before he followed Jim Harbaugh to the Chargers.
Sources: #Chargers DC Jesse Minter has canceled a scheduled meeting with the #Browns today.
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) January 22, 2026
He is believed to be in serious consideration for other HC jobs, including Baltimore. pic.twitter.com/QlKqYGhPm6
Cleveland’s plan had been to bring multiple finalists back for in person meetings, but that slate has taken hits, and it leaves the Browns trying to keep momentum while the rest of the league’s openings keep pulling coaches in different directions.
The domino effect after McDaniel’s exit
The Minter news lands right after former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel backed out of his own second interview and quickly pivoted into the Chargers offensive coordinator job, which only adds to the perception that Cleveland is not an attractive place to head coaches right now.
Jesse Minter's Browns interview today has been canceled, per @Schultz_Report. pic.twitter.com/Ud3YYYA50J
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) January 22, 2026
With Minter now off the board for Cleveland, the Browns are left leaning harder on the remaining interview schedule, including another in person meeting with Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski and the delayed timing around Los Angeles Rams passing game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase due to the playoffs.
Photo Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
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