The Cleveland Browns are wasting no time reshaping their coaching staff under new head coach Todd Monken, and if there’s a theme emerging, it’s this: familiarity and forward-thinking. Monken is leaning into relationships from his past and tapping into a pipeline of coaching talent that includes a heavy dose of Baltimore Ravens DNA - and a clear emphasis on analytics and development.
Let’s break down the latest moves and what they say about the direction Cleveland is heading.
Monken Eyeing Mike Bajakian for QB Coach Role
One of the more intriguing developments is Monken’s interest in Mike Bajakian as quarterbacks coach. Bajakian has spent the bulk of his career in the college game, but he and Monken go back to their days together in Tampa Bay, where they worked side by side for three seasons. That shared history matters - especially when you’re trying to install a system and culture from the ground up.
Bajakian’s most recent stint was as Michigan State’s quarterbacks coach, a job he reportedly left to join Monken in Cleveland. His track record includes time as Tennessee’s offensive coordinator, and while he hasn’t been in the NFL for a while, his return signals Monken’s trust in his ability to develop quarterbacks in a pro setting. That’s a key hire, especially with the Browns expected to build around Shedeur Sanders at the position.
Another Former Raven Joins the Fold
Monken’s affinity for former Ravens staffers continues. The Browns are bringing in Ian Kolste, a former college quarterback and assistant with Baltimore.
Kolste may not be a household name, but he fits the mold of the kind of staffer Monken seems to value: young, sharp, and analytics-savvy. His background as a record-setting college QB adds a player’s perspective to the room, and his time with the Ravens - one of the league’s most analytically driven teams - only strengthens Cleveland’s push toward a more modern, data-informed operation.
Daniel Stern: A Coveted Addition
Perhaps the most notable staff target is Daniel Stern, another key piece from the Ravens’ coaching infrastructure. Stern is known for his strong analytics background and has reportedly been a valuable asset to John Harbaugh’s team. Now, the Browns and New York Giants are both vying for his services - a sign of just how highly regarded he is around the league.
If Cleveland lands Stern, it would be a significant addition. His expertise could help bridge the gap between the coaching staff and the analytics department - a relationship that’s become increasingly vital in today’s NFL. For a Browns team trying to modernize and find a competitive edge, adding someone like Stern would be a smart, strategic move.
Tight End Prospect Justin Joly Talks NFL Future
On the player side, tight end Justin Joly is generating buzz as a potential fit for Cleveland in the 2026 NFL Draft. In an exclusive interview, Joly expressed his readiness to take the next step to the pros.
The Browns could use depth in the tight end room, and Joly’s skill set - athletic, versatile, and productive - makes him an intriguing option. With the draft still months away, it’s too early to project where he might land, but he’s definitely on the radar.
What’s Next for DC Jim Schwartz?
Meanwhile, the future of defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz remains uncertain. There’s growing pressure for the Browns to make a decision soon, as Monken continues to build out his staff.
Schwartz’s experience and defensive acumen are well-respected, but with a new regime in place, there’s always the possibility of change. Monken needs clarity here - either to retain a proven defensive mind or move in a new direction that aligns with his vision.
Myles Garrett Trade Rumors Addressed
As speculation swirls around the league, the Browns have made it clear how they’d respond to a potential trade request from star pass rusher Myles Garrett: they’re not interested. Garrett remains a cornerstone of the franchise, and while trade rumors are part of the offseason noise, Cleveland isn’t looking to entertain them. That kind of stance sends a message - both to Garrett and the locker room - that the team is committed to keeping its elite talent in-house.
Shedeur Sanders and the Pro Bowl Spotlight
Shedeur Sanders continues to draw national attention, and not just for his future role in Cleveland. His presence at the Pro Bowl has sparked conversation, with NFL legend Michael Irvin even suggesting Sanders is helping to “save” the event.
Irvin’s comparison of Sanders to Jake Paul might raise eyebrows, but the point stands: Sanders brings star power and energy to a league always looking for fresh faces to market. For the Browns, that kind of spotlight can only help as they look to rebrand and rebuild.
Bottom Line: Todd Monken is putting his stamp on the Cleveland Browns, and he’s doing it quickly. With hires like Bajakian, Kolste, and potentially Stern, there’s a clear emphasis on familiarity, innovation, and a modern approach to coaching. The Browns are signaling that they’re serious about building something sustainable - and with the right pieces, they might just pull it off.