Report: Rhule declines interview with Browns

Matt Rhule is taking NFL interviews - just not with the Cleveland Browns.

The coveted Baylor head coach, who's said he'll only consider jumping to the pros for a situation that is "next to perfect," declined a chance to meet with the Browns, sources told Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Rhule is expected to interview with the Carolina Panthers and New York Giants, and he is reportedly the early favorite for the latter franchise's position.

The 44-year-old spearheaded a sensational turnaround at Baylor, taking the previously disgraced program from 1-11 in 2017 to 11-2 and the Sugar Bowl in 2019.

Cleveland is seeking a replacement for Freddie Kitchens, who was fired after one season. The Browns haven't had a head coach make it through three full seasons since Romeo Crennel served from 2006-08, and his stint preceded Jimmy Haslam's ownership of the franchise.