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Former Vikings offensive coordinator Kevin Stefanski is the Cleveland Browns’ new head coach, according to multiple reports.

The Browns couldn’t officially hire Stefanski until the Vikings were eliminated from the playoffs, and less than 24 hours after Saturday’s loss to the 49ers, the hiring was made.

That hiring may get renewed scrutiny, given the performance of the Vikings’ offense in that loss in San Francisco where 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh -- another candidate for the Browns' vacancy -- put the clamps on Stefanski's offense.

As Profootballtalk.com notes, that poor showing was highlighted by questionable fourth quarter play calling, when the Vikings continued to attempt to establish the run even when they were facing a 17-point deficit. Indeed, Stefanski’s offense was outgained 308 yards to 147, and outrushed 186 yards to 21. The 49ers had 21 first downs to Minnesota’s seven, and won the time of possession battle 38:27 to 21:33.

But a league source told ESPN's Chris Mortensen that the Vikings’ performance wouldn't have much impact on the Browns’ process. They would be hiring him as a head coach instead of a coordinator, and one game shouldn’t negate all the previous due diligence.

Indeed, as PFT's Michael David Smith reminded readers, Paul DePodesta, the Browns’ longtime analytics strategist, reportedly wanted Stefanski last year, when the Browns hired Freddie Kitchens instead. The Browns still need to hire a G.M., and they will want someone whose philosophy aligns with those of Stefanski and DePodesta.

In addition to Stefanski and Saleh, the Browns interviewed Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, former Packers head coach Mike McCarthy, who was named Cowboys coach on Tuesday, Ravens offensive coordinator Greg Roman, Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, Bills offensive coordinator Brian Daboll and Eagles defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz.

As of Saturday night, the Browns hadn’t officially eliminated any of the seven remaining candidates, but Cleveland Plain Dealer staffer Mary Kay Cabot noted at the time that some were hotter than others, including Stefanski and Saleh. Mortensen reported that Daboll, who has five Super Bowl rings with Bill Belichick and a national championship with Nick Saban, had a very strong interview and was a sleeper candidate.

But Stefanski won out.

With the Browns’ vacancy filled, the coach hiring season is over, and all 32 NFL teams have a head coach.