The Cleveland Browns are entering a new era under head coach Todd Monken, and while the energy around the hire is high, there’s no mistaking the work ahead. Monken, known for his creative passing schemes, is already shaping the future of his staff-and the offense as a whole-with a key hire potentially on the horizon. According to reports, Ravens run-game coordinator Travis Switzer is the frontrunner to become the Browns’ next offensive coordinator.
Switzer, who helped guide Baltimore’s ground game to sustained success, is set to interview with Cleveland soon. The idea?
Pair Monken’s aerial attack with the physical, downhill run principles Switzer helped build in Baltimore. It’s a compelling combination on paper-one that could finally give the Browns the offensive identity they’ve lacked.
Let’s be honest: Cleveland’s offense has been stuck in neutral for the past two seasons. They’ve ranked dead last in points scored over that span, and the quarterback situation remains murky.
Deshaun Watson’s future is still uncertain. Shedeur Sanders saw time under center, but is he the long-term answer?
And what about Dillon Gabriel-does he still factor into the equation?
These are questions Monken and his eventual offensive coordinator will need to answer quickly. But they’ve got some tools to work with.
The Browns hold two first-round picks in the upcoming draft, including the No. 6 overall selection. That’s a prime opportunity to reinforce the offensive line-something that draft analyst Mel Kiper has pegged as a priority.
Kiper believes Cleveland should target a versatile tackle who brings size, power, and refined technique-someone capable of holding down either edge of the line. Protecting whoever lines up at quarterback will be critical if Monken’s system is going to click.
At No. 24, Cleveland could also look to add a wide receiver-an area that clearly needs a boost.
Jerry Jeudy hasn’t emerged as a true WR1, and while tight end Harold Fannin Jr. has flashed serious upside, Monken’s offense thrives when it has a reliable outside threat to stretch the field. Whether through the draft or free agency, upgrading the receiver room is a must.
There are some positives already in place. The Browns’ defense, led by coordinator Jim Schwartz, is one of the league’s most aggressive and effective units.
That side of the ball is ready to win now. And in the backfield, Quinshon Judkins gives the Browns a legitimate lead back with the vision and burst to thrive in a run-heavy scheme.
That makes Switzer’s potential addition all the more interesting-he could tailor the run game to Judkins’ strengths while Monken designs the aerial attack.
But the bottom line is this: for the Browns to take the next step, they have to get it right on offense. That means making smart choices in the draft, solving the quarterback riddle, and building a staff that can bring balance and creativity to a unit that’s been searching for both.
Monken’s arrival signals a fresh start. Now it’s about turning that promise into production.