The Browns plan to hire Panthers offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski to be their next head coach.
Chudzinski, a Toledo, Ohio native, spent the past two seasons as offensive coordinator of the Panthers. He served as offensive coordinator of the Browns in 2007-08 and had a previous stint with Cleveland in 2004.
A report early Thursday indicated former Arizona Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt had emerged as a top candidate. Whisenhunt had a second interview with the Browns.
The Browns also interviewed Mike Zimmer, Bengals defensive coordinator, this week.
Chudzinski is credited with helping convert Cam Newton from a spread offense quarterback at Auburn to a successful NFL quarterback.