As Todd Monken officially steps into the head coaching role in Cleveland, the excitement around his arrival has been tempered by a sudden and surprising development: Jim Schwartz is out. The architect of one of the league’s most feared defenses is reportedly gone - and not quietly - leaving the Browns with a massive hole to fill on the defensive side of the ball.
For Monken, who brings an offensive pedigree and a sharp, innovative mind, the challenge now is clear. He needs a defensive coordinator who can not only maintain the elite standard Schwartz established but also align with his vision of a balanced, forward-thinking football team. That’s no small ask - especially for a team with legitimate postseason aspirations and a generational talent like Myles Garrett anchoring the defense.
Let’s break down three top candidates who could step into Schwartz’s shoes and keep this Browns defense operating at a championship level.
1. Anthony Weaver (Dolphins Defensive Coordinator)
If you’re looking for continuity, familiarity, and instant credibility, Anthony Weaver checks every box. He’s the frontrunner for a reason.
Weaver spent last season as the defensive coordinator in Miami, but his most relevant experience - and what makes him such a compelling fit in Cleveland - is his time in Baltimore alongside Monken. The two were key figures during one of the Ravens’ most successful recent stretches, with Monken calling plays on offense and Weaver serving as assistant head coach and defensive line coach.
Under their combined leadership, Baltimore’s defense was a fortress. In 2022, they allowed the fewest points per game in the league.
In 2023, they ranked third. That kind of consistency and dominance doesn’t happen by accident - it’s the result of elite coaching, player development, and a shared vision of how to win football games.
Now, with Miami undergoing a staff overhaul following Mike McDaniel’s departure, Weaver could be available. And if he is, Cleveland would be wise to make the call. He knows Monken’s system, understands the locker room culture they want to build, and has a proven track record of getting the most out of his front seven - a crucial factor when you’ve got a game-wrecker like Garrett on the edge.
2. Zachary Orr (Former Ravens Defensive Coordinator)
If Monken wants to keep the Baltimore connection going, Zach Orr is another strong candidate - and one with serious upside.
Orr is currently a coaching free agent after the Ravens’ staff shakeup, but his résumé speaks for itself. He’s a young, aggressive defensive mind who earned the coordinator role in Baltimore after rising quickly through the ranks. He worked closely with Monken during their time together, and there’s a clear mutual respect between the two.
What makes Orr particularly intriguing is his ability to blend schematic complexity with player-friendly communication. He’s known for crafting game plans that challenge offenses while empowering his defenders to play fast and instinctively - a perfect match for a Browns defense loaded with speed and intelligence at every level.
Cleveland’s personnel is built to thrive in a system like Orr’s: aggressive, high-IQ, and versatile. If Monken wants to bring the “Ravens Way” to the AFC North’s other black-and-orange franchise, Orr could be the guy to lead that charge.
3. Chuck Smith (Ravens Pass Rush Coach)
Then there’s the wild card - and maybe the highest-upside option of the bunch.
Chuck Smith, known in football circles as “Dr. Rush,” has made a name for himself as one of the premier pass-rush specialists in the game. Since joining the Ravens’ staff in 2023, he’s quickly earned a reputation for his ability to develop edge talent and elevate defensive line play.
Smith doesn’t have coordinator experience yet, but his impact has been undeniable. He’s a technician when it comes to hand usage, leverage, and get-off - all the tools that elite pass rushers like Myles Garrett can use to dominate even more than they already do. And with Baltimore now transitioning to a new coaching regime under Jesse Minter, Smith could be ready for the next step.
What makes Smith a particularly intriguing fit in Cleveland is his familiarity with Monken’s tempo and practice structure. He understands the rhythm and pace Monken wants from his team, and that kind of synergy between offensive and defensive leadership can go a long way in building a cohesive locker room.
If the Browns are looking to take a swing on a rising star with the potential to become one of the next big names in defensive coaching, Smith is worth serious consideration.
What’s Next for the Browns
Replacing Jim Schwartz won’t be easy. His impact on the Browns’ defense - from their physical identity to their week-to-week consistency - was immense. But this is also an opportunity for Cleveland to evolve.
Todd Monken brings a fresh approach, and with the right hire, he can pair his offensive innovation with a defensive mind who keeps the Browns among the league’s elite. Whether it’s the proven leadership of Anthony Weaver, the rising brilliance of Zach Orr, or the high-upside potential of Chuck Smith, Cleveland has options.
Now it’s just a matter of picking the right one - and keeping the Browns’ championship window wide open.