Browns coaching search: Mike Pettine to receive second interview according to reports
By Peter Smith
Jul 28, 2013; Pittsford, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills defensive coordinator Mike Pettine points as he talks to the Bills defense during training camp at St. John Fisher College. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
After the Cleveland Browns said they would not rush into a hire, things might be heating up with Buffalo Bills defensive coordinator Mike Pettine. According to a report, which amounted to someone who had access to see his daughter’s tweets, (who has since deleted the account), Pettine and the Browns would have a second interview.
The Browns have been long expected to hire an offensive mind but have interviewed candidates on both sides of the ball and even gone to the special teams group as well. Pettine has had a lot of success coaching up defensive units in his career. This past year, he had a big impact on the Bills defense and their defensive line led the league in sacks while also having the defensive rookie of the year in Kiko Alonso. Before that, he had success under Rex Ryan with the New York Jets.
Bills fans and media are voicing their displeasure on social media, which is completely unscientific, but nevertheless interesting. They feel like losing Pettine would be devastating and that much of the defensive staff would be leaving with him as he was the one who took them there.
The Browns have been steadfast and saying that they wanted to wait and speak with Adam Gase most notably, but candidates on the remaining playoff teams, so they might not move on this quite yet, but Pettine has certainly entered the conversation.