Browns pause in search for next coach

The meeting with the Browns lasted about four hours.

CBS Sports’ Jason LaCanfora also reported he would not be surprised if the Browns make Jackson a formal offer on Tuesday.

In other coaching news, a source told cleveland.com that John DeFilippo was among four Browns assistants who were asked to remain in Cleveland if the new coach wants them.

When the Raiders relieved Jackson of his duties in 2011, it was met with surprise by many football enthusiasts as they considered him a good coach.

After parting ways with long-time head coach Tom Coughlin at the conclusion of their season, the New York Giants are now reportedly interested in Jackson as well.

The Browns stayed busy while Jackson met with the 49ers in Cincinnati.

Multiple reports are saying the Browns are ready to make him an aggressive, substantial offer to become the new head coach of the Cleveland Browns.

Jackson’s familiarity with the AFC North as well as his background as a head coach in Oakland — he went 8-8 in 2011 — made him an attractive candidate to the Browns. He was sacked after one year after getting caught up in organizational turmoil.

The Browns have interviewed Carolina defensive coordinator Sean McDermott for their head coaching job. It will also be the second time that a Bengals defensive backs coach is ushered into Miami as their defensive coordinator, with Kevin Coyle being the first.

He’s popular with and respected by his players and eager to get another shot in charge.

Jackson also worked with Joe Flacco in Baltimore and Carson Palmer at USC.

Jackson is known for the creative flair he brought to Cincinnati’s offense with unbalanced lines, wildcat formations and linemen lining up as slot receivers. The Bengals ranked seventh in scoring (26.2 points per game), 15th in total yards, 13th in rushing and 15th in passing. The Bengals beat the Browns 31-10 and 37-3.

Especially after the success of former quarterback Harbaugh, who led the franchise to three straight NFC championship games and a Super Bowl appearance in his first three seasons as coach before going 8-8 last season and departing in what the team called a “mutual decision”.

If Jackson truly loved the 49ers and loved the situation, he probably would’ve been happy to wink-wink/nod-nod during their five-hour meeting Sunday and there would’ve been a deal by Sunday night.