As Todd Monken officially steps into the head coaching role in Cleveland, the excitement of a new era has been tempered by a significant shakeup on the other side of the ball. Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz is reportedly out-and not quietly. His abrupt and reportedly heated departure leaves a major hole on a Browns defense that’s been nothing short of elite.
Now, Monken’s first major test isn’t just installing his offensive vision-it’s finding the right defensive partner to keep this unit operating at a championship-caliber level. The Browns aren’t just looking for a coordinator; they’re looking for someone who can command a room filled with stars like Myles Garrett and continue building on the foundation Schwartz helped establish.
Here are three names that make a lot of sense for Cleveland-candidates who bring both scheme familiarity and leadership chops to the table:
1. Anthony Weaver (Dolphins Defensive Coordinator)
If the Browns want to minimize the disruption from Schwartz’s exit, Anthony Weaver might be the most seamless fit. He’s fresh off coordinating Miami’s defense, but it’s his history with Monken in Baltimore that makes this pairing especially intriguing.
Back in their Ravens days, Weaver was the assistant head coach and defensive line coach, while Monken ran the offense. That staff helped guide Baltimore to some of the stingiest defensive performances in the league-fewest points allowed in 2022, third fewest in 2023. That kind of consistency doesn’t happen by accident.
Weaver brings a physical, disciplined approach up front, and he already speaks the same football language as Monken. With Miami undergoing a major staff overhaul following Mike McDaniel’s exit, Weaver could be available-and he checks every box for what Cleveland needs: experience, leadership, and a proven track record of success.
2. Zachary Orr (Former Ravens Defensive Coordinator)
If Monken wants to double down on what worked in Baltimore, Zach Orr is another compelling option. A rising star in coaching circles, Orr most recently coordinated the Ravens defense and is now a free agent after Baltimore’s staff changes.
He’s young, sharp, and highly respected for his ability to connect with players while dialing up aggressive, intelligent schemes. That’s exactly the kind of energy that fits Cleveland’s defensive identity-fast, physical, and smart.
Orr also has the built-in familiarity with Monken from their shared time in Baltimore, which could accelerate the transition. For a team that doesn’t want to lose momentum on defense, that chemistry matters.
3. Chuck Smith (Ravens Pass Rush Coach)
If the Browns want to swing for upside, Chuck Smith is a name to watch. Known in coaching circles as “Dr.
Rush,” Smith has built a reputation as one of the best pass-rush developers in the game. Since joining the Ravens in 2023, he’s helped elevate their edge play with a mix of technique, intensity, and innovation.
Smith hasn’t yet held a coordinator title, but don’t let that fool you-he’s got the tools. His deep understanding of defensive line play and his ability to get the most out of elite talent make him a particularly intriguing fit for a defense anchored by Myles Garrett.
Smith also knows Monken’s tempo and expectations from their time together, which could help create a smoother transition. If Cleveland is looking to inject new ideas while keeping the defensive standard high, Smith could be the kind of bold hire that pays off in a big way.
Cleveland’s defense has been the backbone of its recent success, and replacing a coordinator like Schwartz is no small task. But with Monken now leading the charge, the Browns have a chance to bring in someone who not only keeps the unit strong-but helps elevate it even further.
Whether it’s a seasoned voice like Weaver, a rising strategist like Orr, or a pass-rush guru like Smith, the Browns have options. What they choose to do next will say a lot about the identity this team wants to build under Monken’s leadership.