Cleveland Browns: Freddie Kitchens ‘very interested’ in Chuck Pagano as DC
By Dan Justik
The Cleveland Browns are now entering their second most important search for 2019, as they are searching for the Freddie Kitchens’ defensive coordinator.
The Cleveland Browns and head coach Freddie Kitchens are ‘very interested’ in former Indianapolis Colts head coach Chuck Pagano as the next defensive coordinator, according to Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic.
Somers report also mentions that Pagano is currently the front-runner for the Arizona Cardinals defensive coordinator position under Kliff Kingsbury.
The Browns are looking for a new defensive coordinator after relieving Gregg Williams and most of his defensive staff of their duties. According to NFL Network’s Aditi Kinkhabwala, general manager John Dorsey is playing a role in the hiring of Kitchens’ staff.
#Browns moving quickly to fill out first-time head coach Freddie Kitchens’ staff. Interviews are already being skedded and here’s the kicker: I’m told GM John Dorsey has a significant role in choosing assistants. Remember: @MaryKayCabot told us Kitchens reports directly to Dorsey
— Aditi Kinkhabwala (@AKinkhabwala) January 10, 2019
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It may be seen as a bad sign that Dorsey has a role in filling out Kitchens’ staff. However, Kitchens only coaching for one organization for the most of his career means he may not have many contacts around the league to fill out a staff.
Pagano would be a strong hire as the Browns defensive coordinator. It seems that the Browns are looking for an experienced defensive coach to manage that side of the ball allowing Kitchens to focus on the offense.
Pagano spent six seasons as the Colts head coach from 2012-2017. He compiled a 53-43 record in that time. His Colts teams made it to the playoffs three times, and he finished with a 3-3 postseason record.
Pagano spent four seasons on the Baltimore Ravens defensive staff from 2008-2011. He spent the first three seasons in Baltimore as the secondary coach before being promoted to defensive coordinator in 2011. That season, the Ravens finished third in the league in total defense and third in points scored.
The Colts defense never had success during Pagano’s time, typically ranking at the bottom of the league. However, the defensive personnel never seemed to be a focus under then general manager Ryan Grigson. The defense was also run by Greg Manusky for most of his tenure, not Pagano.
Next. Former HC's Browns should target for defensive coordinator. dark
One potential hangup in hiring Pagano is the 58-year-old primarily running a 3-4 defense throughout his career. Although the rise of multiple fronts and sub defenses makes base defenses less relevant, the Browns do not have the personnel to fit a 3-4 defensive scheme.