:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/27279361/20130728_ajl_ah3_314.0.jpg)
Despite only coaching in Green Bay for two seasons, Alex Van Pelt has apparently impressed enough people to warrant an opportunity as an offensive coordinator.
According to CBSSports' Jason La Canfora, Van Pelt is a top offensive coordinator candidate for potential Browns head coach Mike Pettine.
Should Mike Pettine get the Browns HC job, I'm told Alex Van Pelt (Pack RB coach) high on his list as Offensive Coordinator candidates
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) January 22, 2014
There are several things to note here. While the two have never coached together, both have spent time at the University of Pittsburgh and with the Buffalo Bills. Perhaps more importantly, Van Pelt remains under contract with the Packers. The team has the right to block any team from interviewing their assistant coaches for any non-head coaching position during the duration of their deals. The team prevented quarterbacks coach Ben McAdoo from interviewing for several jobs until his contract expired this offseason. Accordingly, Van Pelt is unlikely to interview with the Browns this year.
It's a credit to the Packers' success on offense that so many of their assistants on that side of the ball are under consideration for bigger jobs around the league. It's expected that Green Bay will promote Van Pelt to McAdoo's old position soon. Coaching Aaron Rodgers and the quarterback room is a considerable jump in responsibility, but judging by his profile around the league, one that Van Pelt can handle.
