Cleveland Browns: Mike Priefer, from fan to Cleveland coach

Growing up in Ohio as a fan of the team, Mike Preifer has come full circle as he joined the Cleveland Browns coaching staff as the Special Teams Coordinator

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Mike Priefer grew up rooting for the Cleveland Browns — and many of his family members stayed loyal to the team even as he was coaching for different NFL teams.

Priefer, who was hired as the new special teams coordinator in January, met with the media on Thursday as the Browns held their introductory press conference for him, as well as Todd Monken and Steve Wilks who will take on the roles of offensive and defensive coordinator respectively.

During that conference, Preifer said that his family members would wish him luck when he would come home to play the Browns, but they also added they hoped Cleveland would come away with the win. Growing up in the area, Preifer also said he understands the passion that this fan base has and didn’t blame his family for their support.

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Understanding that incredible passion fans have helped Priefer make the decision to join the Browns as he had several suitors this offseason after his contract ran out with the Minnesota Vikings. After eight years with that franchise, Priefer was offered a new contract with them, and the Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons were also rumored to be interested in him.

Priefer picked the Browns and now wants to do something special with the team. Rather than just saying he wants the team to improve upon a poor season, Priefer said he wants to go down as the best special teams coach in franchise history.

"“I want to be the best special teams coordinator that (the Browns) have ever had,” Priefer said via Jimmy Watkins of ClevelandBrowns.com. “I want to lead these young men in the area of special teams to help us win a championship.”"

For his part, Priefer understands this will start with discipline. The Browns were one of the most penalized special teams units in the league in 2018 whereas the Vikings were the least penalized under his tutelage. His dedication to discipline isn’t surprising given his military background as Priefer served in the United States Navy from 1991 to 1994.

Should Priefer instill more discipline, it could lead to similar success with the Browns as he had with the Vikings. It would also allow someone who grew up rooting for the team to help restore them to prominence.