The Cleveland Browns have quickly filled their offensive line coaching vacancy, naming former Rice Owls head coach Mike Bloomgren to the position just days after parting ways with Andy Dickerson.
“Mike has a wealth of knowledge and is extremely bright,” said Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski in the team’s announcement. “He brings NFL experience along with a successful track record in pro-style college offenses. He’s proven to be an excellent teacher and motivator, which will be key for our offensive line.”
*Bloomgren’s Career Highlights
Bloomgren, 47, served as head coach at Rice University for seven seasons. However, his coaching roots include substantial NFL experience. He began his pro coaching career with the New York Jets in 2007 as an offensive quality control coach. He was later promoted to offensive assistant and eventually assistant offensive coordinator by 2010. During his time with the Jets, he worked under former Browns offensive line coach Bill Callahan, who was also an assistant in New York.
After leaving the NFL, Bloomgren joined Stanford University, where he spent seven seasons. Initially hired as an offensive line coach, he became the team’s offensive coordinator in 2013. Under his guidance, Stanford enjoyed one of its most successful eras, winning at least eight games each season and reaching the Pac-12 Championship Game four times. The team also secured three conference titles during his tenure.
Bloomgren helped develop numerous top-tier players at Stanford, including 12 NFL Draft picks and 11 All-Americans. Notable talents include Joshua Garnett, a first-round pick and 2015 Outland Trophy winner, and Christian McCaffrey, who set NCAA all-purpose yardage records and is now one of the NFL’s premier running backs.
Excitement for the Role
Bloomgren expressed enthusiasm about joining the Browns. “From ownership to the alignment with Andrew (Berry) and Kevin (Stefanski), it’s an exciting time to be here,” he said. “The commitment to making this team great and making another playoff run is exactly what I want to be a part of.
“As coaches, we exist for the players. It’s our job to provide clear direction. With talent like Joel Bitonio and others on this line, I’m excited to see how this group can come together to form a strong offensive unit.”
Leave a Reply