John Dorsey will reportedly run Browns head coach search

General manager John Dorsey will be in charge of finding the next Cleveland Browns head coach.

The Plain Dealer’s May Kay Cabot reported Wednesday that owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam have fully empowered the experienced executive to lead the search despite reports they would have a role. Longtime NFL reporter Albert Breer corroborated the report on 92.3 The Fan’s Bull and Fox program, saying the owners met with Dorsey earlier in the week to discuss that approach.

Earlier this week, Sports Illustrated’s Robert Klemko reported the owners had not given Dorsey any assurances he would have input into the hire.

However, Cabot’s sources indicate Dorsey will have “full authority” to conduct the coaching search, which also may imply he ultimately retains final hiring authority. Whether the Haslams maintain a veto power remains to be seen.

Some interesting names have surfaced in the coaching search to date. Recently retired coach Bruce Arians said he would be willing to return to coaching, but only for the Browns job, according to CantonRep.com’s Steve Doerschuk. Arians was the Browns offensive coordinator from 2001 to ‘03, and the 2002 season was the last time they reached the playoffs.

Other names suspected to draw Dorsey’s interest include Baker Mayfield’s college coach Lincoln Riley, New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, and former Browns offensive coordinator John DeFillipo.

Whatever Dorsey does, he has to find a coach with a vision that aligns with the organization’s. Differing viewpoints are important, but there needs to be a common base philosophy in place to prevent toxicity and discord. Most importantly, he has to find a leader, one with the football and personal acumen necessary to innovate and bring his team together underneath that unified vision.

This should be a walk in the park for someone with his experience in the industry. But anyone reading this knows better. Dorsey’s decision will have immense and lasting effects, so let’s hope he finally gets this right for the Browns.