Browns have not discussed Condoleezza Rice for coaching vacancy

Nov. 18 (UPI) -- Cleveland Browns general manager John Dorsey says the team has not discussed hiring Condoleezza Rice as a coach, disputing an ESPN report.

Dorsey issued a statement on Sunday. The Browns have a Week 11 bye.

"Former secretary of state Condoleezza Rice is a great leader, possesses the highest possible character and also happens to be a Browns fan," Dorsey said. "I have the utmost respect and admiration for all she's accomplished and was honored to meet her for the first time earlier this season. Our coaching search will be thorough and deliberate, but we are still in the process of composing the list of candidates and Secretary Rice has not been discussed."

A league source told ESPN Sunday that the Browns would like to interview Rice for their head coaching job. She would be the first woman to interview for an NFL head coaching job if she were to be interviewed. Rice could also be brought on in another capacity, according to the report.

The Browns fired coach Hue Jackson on Oct. 29 after he posted a 3-36-1 record in 40 games at the position. The Browns were 0-16 in 2017. Jackson is now working as an assistant to Cincinnati Bengals coach Marvin Lewis.

Cleveland turned to Gregg Williams as its interim coach following Jackson's departure and beat the Atlanta Falcons 28-16 in Week 10.