Even More on Mike Holmgren, Other Candidates

ESPN’s Adam Schefter spent much of his Sunday morning documenting the situation in Berea, Ohio as the Browns look to figure out this whole front office issue that has plagued them for the last 10 seasons.  Former Seahawk coach Mike Holmgren continues to be the name that tops the rumored list of one Randy Lerner, but there is still plenty to figure out if and when a decision is made.

The OBR’s John Taylor not only discusses the potential addition of Holmgren, but also lists a few others that Lerner may turn to if Moustache Mike opts to avoid the Browns situation like the plague that it may be.  Those wondering when a decision will be made may have to wait, however.  Lerner has reportedly set a soft target date of late November.  But instead of rushing into a decision, most can agree that it would be best to get this one right.

Whomever steps into the role of the new “football czar” will have a laundry list of items which to address.  The first will be to hire a general manager.  Oddly enough, the Browns allegedly still have one of those by name, though he is no longer “actively involved” with the team.  In fact, Schefter reported that the Browns confiscated George Kokinis’ cell phone upon his dismissal from the compound.  Another fun fact was that the Browns were allegedly so startled with Kokinis’ perceived distance from the team that they recommended counseling.  Queue the circus music…

Upon hiring a GM, the next item of discussion will be the head coach.  Taylor reports that replacing Eric Mangini is not a dealbreaker for Lerner, and it will be left in the hands of those in charge of operations – though is not a guaranteed move by any means in regard to Holmgren.  Browns fans that would like to see Mangini relieved of his duties will be rooting for Atlanta GM Rich McKay to get the job.

McKay was reportedly considered for the GM role for thisseason, but wanted nothing to do with working for Mangini.  While not likely to land the job, McKay comes along with the following:

If McKay were offered the job and did accept, however, [a league] source said that “the first [very bad word] thing he would do — before he unpacked any boxes — would be to fire that [another very bad word] Mangini.”

Taylor continues to report on who Mike Holmgren prefers under center for the Browns, showing that the former coach has at least looked into his potential employer.  Consider him the opposite of Bobby Valentine, folks.  No word on what he would do with the contract situation of Joshua Cribbs, though one can imagine that this too will be a hot topic.

Needless to say, there is bound to be more chatter for the next few weeks.  Once a “voice” is named, the talk with then continue from there as to the future GM and head coach.  Browns fans may not see many wins, but there is never a dull moment in Berea.  For better or worse.