FILE - In this July 31, 2013, file photo, Buffalo Bills defensive coordinator Mike Pettine walks to the field during NFL football training camp in Pittsford, N.Y. Pettine has interviewed for the Cleveland Browns head coaching position, a person familiar with the Browns' plans told the Associated Press. Pettine interviewed with owner Jimmy Haslam and CEO Joe Banner last week and will have his second meeting on Tuesday night, Jan. 21, 2014, in Mobile, Ala., said the person who spoke on condition of anonymity because the team is not commenting during its search. Pettine is at the Senior Bowl in Mobile with other members of Buffalo's staff. (AP Photo/Bill Wippert, File) (The Associated Press)
CLEVELAND – The Browns' coaching search could be nearing a conclusion.
Team officials interviewed Buffalo defensive coordinator Mike Pettine for the second time on Tuesday night in Mobile, Ala., and although the sides did not reach a deal, the 47-year-old has emerged as the front-runner to become Cleveland's seventh full-time coach.
Pettine, who spent one season with the Bills after four on Rex Ryan's staff with the New York Jets, told Cleveland.com that he "should have some feedback on my interview by the end of the day."
The Browns are also expected to give Seattle defensive coordinator Dan Quinn a second interview. With the Seahawks getting ready for the Super Bowl, the Browns have to conduct that interview by Jan. 26.
On Tuesday, Denver offensive coordinator Adam Gase withdrew his name from consideration for Cleveland's opening.
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AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org
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