As the 2026 NFL coaching carousel kicks into high gear, the Cleveland Browns find themselves at a pivotal crossroads - and Jim Schwartz is right at the center of it.
Schwartz, the architect of one of the league’s most dominant defenses, has been a steady hand in Cleveland. With prior head coaching experience and a proven track record of building elite defensive units, he's long been viewed as the most logical internal candidate to replace Kevin Stefanski. But as the Browns weigh their options, it’s becoming clear that Schwartz’s role in the organization might not hinge solely on whether he gets the top job.
Even if the Browns pivot toward an offensive-minded head coach - names like Todd Monken, Grant Udinski, Mike McDaniel, and Nate Scheelhaase are all in the mix - the organization appears intent on keeping Schwartz in the building. Whether that’s as defensive coordinator, assistant head coach, or both, Cleveland clearly values the continuity and leadership he brings to the table.
And now, with the Buffalo Bills making the blockbuster decision to move on from Sean McDermott, the stakes around Schwartz’s future have only intensified. Buffalo’s opening - with a franchise quarterback in Josh Allen and a win-now roster - has instantly become one of the most attractive jobs on the market. Schwartz, who interviewed with the Browns for a second time on Monday, suddenly has a bit more leverage than he did just a few days ago.
But according to those close to the situation, that second meeting wasn’t just about Schwartz pitching his vision as the next head coach. It was also about something bigger - how he might fit into the Browns’ long-term structure regardless of who gets the top job.
The Browns used that time to explore how Schwartz, 59, might work alongside a younger, offensive-minded head coach, should the team decide to go that route. The idea?
Keep the defensive juggernaut intact while handing the offensive reins to a fresh voice. It’s a strategy that’s worked for other franchises - pairing a rising offensive mind with a seasoned defensive coordinator who commands respect in the locker room.
The Browns are reportedly open to giving Schwartz an elevated role - potentially adding the assistant head coach title - to reflect his importance, even if he’s not the one ultimately replacing Stefanski. But whether a young head coach, such as 30-year-old Grant Udinski, would be comfortable with that kind of power-sharing dynamic remains to be seen.
For now, the Browns can afford to be patient. They still need to satisfy the Rooney Rule before making a final decision, and that process likely won’t be complete until they meet again with Scheelhaase following the Rams’ appearance in the NFC Championship Game.
Meanwhile, Schwartz has made it known he wants another shot at being a head coach. He’s also interviewed with the Ravens, though unless he lands that job, he’s under contract in Cleveland through the 2026 season. That gives the Browns the right to block any lateral move - meaning another team can’t simply hire him away as a defensive coordinator.
All signs point to Cleveland trying to thread the needle: land a top-tier offensive coach while keeping Schwartz in place to maintain the identity of the defense. It’s a delicate balance, but one that could pay off in a big way.
Schwartz brings stability, experience, and the respect of a defensive unit that’s been among the league’s best. If the Browns can pair that with an innovative offensive mind, they may have found the formula to finally break through in a loaded AFC.
Owner Jimmy Haslam holds the cards. And if he plays them right, he might just pull off the rare coaching combination that gives the Browns both continuity and creativity - a veteran defensive leader in Schwartz, and a fresh offensive voice to guide the next phase of Cleveland football.