ESPN's Adam Schefter is reporting that Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels has withdrawn himself from consideration for the Cleveland Browns head coaching position. This represents a huge positive for the Patriots as they are able to move forward with a degree of consistency.

McDaniels had placed himself at the top of Cleveland's list for the head coaching spot (although it was in dispute with names floating up and down the team's list). With a wide number of offensive targets and a solid defensive program, the Browns seem to be close to breaking through an unstable AFC North.

However, the degree of turmoil surrounding the Browns likely made it a less than desired position. Patriots head coach Bill Belichick is friends with Browns General Manager Mike Lombardi, so it's likely that the parties got together to not just give McDaniels experience and exposure, but also to make the job seem slightly more desirable for other candidates.