Cleveland Browns head coach Mike Pettine, left, poses with owner Jimmy Haslam after being introduced to the media Thursday in Berea, Ohio. Buffalo’s defensive coordinator, who met with team officials for the first time just a week ago, finalized a contract Thursday to become the Browns’ seventh full-time coach since 1999.CLEVELAND – After nearly a month of twists, turns and talk, the Browns found their man.
Mike Pettine is Cleveland’s new coach.
Buffalo’s defensive coordinator, who met with team officials for the first time just a week ago, finalized a five-year contract Thursday to become the Browns’ seventh full-time coach since 1999. The team fired Rob Chudzinski on Dec. 29 following one season and embarked on a winding search that ended with Pettine.
“We wanted to be thorough from the start,” CEO Joe Banner said, “and we interviewed as many people as we could. From that group, we hired the best individual for this job. Our players and fans are going to really enjoy Mike Pettine and his leadership style.”
The 47-year-old Pettine, the son of a legendary Pennsylvania high school coach, spent one year with the Bills after four as Rex Ryan’s defensive coordinator with the New York Jets.