In a significant move for the Cleveland Browns, the organization is set to interview offensive coordinator Tommy Rees this Thursday for the head coaching position. But here's where it gets intriguing: he isn't the only candidate under consideration; defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz is also scheduled for an interview on the same day.
At just 33 years old, Rees has made a remarkable journey within the NFL. He initially joined the Browns coaching staff in 2024 as a tight ends and pass game specialist before being promoted to offensive coordinator in 2025. His impact was felt immediately as he assumed playcalling duties starting in Week 10, leading the offense through the remainder of the 2025 season.
Rees's coaching prowess was evident in the performance of his players. Notably, tight end David Njoku made waves by finishing among the top ten in both receptions and receiving touchdowns across all NFL tight ends in 2024. Njoku led the Browns with five touchdown catches and ranked second on the team with 64 receptions. Furthermore, Jordan Akins achieved a personal best with 40 receptions and contributed two touchdowns. In total, five tight ends were active for the Browns, combining for 111 receptions, amassing 953 yards, and scoring eight touchdowns that season. Additionally, wide receiver Jerry Jeudy broke franchise records by reaching new heights in receptions and secured a spot in the Pro Bowl after racking up 1,229 receiving yards—ranking him fifth in the team's history.
Before his role with the Browns, Rees showcased his skills as Alabama's offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach during the 2023 season. His previous experience includes a solid six-year tenure at the University of Notre Dame, where he began as a quarterbacks coach and advanced to offensive coordinator in 2020. Under his leadership, Notre Dame consistently averaged over 30 points per game, culminating in a trip to the College Football Playoffs in 2020 after an undefeated regular season.
Rees's coaching career took off as he started as an offensive graduate assistant for Northwestern under Pat Fitzgerald in 2015. Furthermore, in 2016, he served as an offensive assistant with the San Diego Chargers, contributing to quarterback Philip Rivers's impressive season, where he threw for 4,386 yards and 33 touchdowns.
On a personal note, Rees was no stranger to success on the field, having been a standout quarterback at Notre Dame from 2010 to 2013. During his time there, he earned four letters, boasting a commendable record of 23 wins and 8 losses as a starter. He also ranks second in Notre Dame history with 61 touchdown passes and third with 7,351 passing yards.
A Quick Glimpse at Tommy Rees:
- Position: Offensive Coordinator of the Browns
- Age: 33
- Hometown: Lake Bluff, Illinois
- Alma Mater: University of Notre Dame
- NFL Coaching Experience: 3 Years
With such an impressive background, it's clear that Tommy Rees is a formidable candidate for the head coaching role. What are your thoughts on his potential as a head coach? Do you believe his experience and success in previous roles will translate well into a head coaching position? Let's hear your opinions!
