After an exhaustive coaching search that spanned multiple weeks and 11 known candidates, the Cleveland Browns have zeroed in on their next head coach - and it’s a name that should ring a bell for fans in Northeast Ohio. Todd Monken, the former Browns offensive coordinator from 2019, is set to become the 23rd head coach in franchise history.
This marks Monken’s first shot at an NFL head coaching gig, though he’s no stranger to running a program. He previously spent three seasons as head coach at Southern Miss, where he helped rebuild a struggling program into a bowl team. Since then, Monken’s résumé has only grown stronger, with stops at Georgia - where he played a pivotal role in crafting one of college football’s most efficient and explosive offenses - and most recently with the Baltimore Ravens, where he served as offensive coordinator before departing alongside John Harbaugh this offseason.
The Browns didn’t rush this decision. In fact, the process was anything but hasty.
Cleveland’s front office cast a wide net, conducting interviews with a diverse group of candidates. Three individuals withdrew from consideration during the process, including Grant Udinski, who pulled out late in the game.
The final known interview took place in California, where the Browns met with Rams pass game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase. That interview also satisfied the NFL’s Rooney Rule requirements, with Anthony Lynn having been the first of two qualifying interviews.
Scheelhaase, notably, drew interest from other teams as well - he fielded an interview request from the Buffalo Bills while Cleveland was still in town, and completed that interview shortly after the Browns wrapped up their meeting.
After returning to Ohio on Tuesday morning, Cleveland’s decision-makers regrouped and moved swiftly to finalize their choice. Monken emerged as the pick, bringing with him a reputation for offensive innovation, quarterback development, and adaptability - qualities the Browns desperately need as they look to stabilize a franchise that’s been anything but steady.
While the team has yet to make the hire official, the writing is on the wall: Cleveland is betting on a familiar face with a fresh perspective to lead them into their next chapter. Monken’s return to the Browns - this time with the headset - signals a new era, one that hopes to blend continuity with creativity in a league where offensive minds are at a premium.