The Detroit Lions are heading into the offseason with something a lot of NFL teams would love to have: stability. Dan Campbell remains firmly at the helm, and the Lions have already filled their offensive coordinator vacancy with a hire that-while not flashy-fits the identity they’re trying to reinforce: a physical, downhill run game paired with a versatile passing attack that leans on tight ends and multi-look formations. It’s a move that signals consistency, not chaos, and that’s a welcome theme in Detroit right now.
But while the Lions are quietly setting the table for another playoff push, things in Cleveland are a bit more complicated.
The Browns just named Todd Monken as their new head coach, a move that’s already generating buzz. Monken’s offensive résumé speaks for itself-he helped unlock Lamar Jackson’s MVP-caliber play in Baltimore and brings a creative, aggressive mindset to a Browns offense that’s long needed a spark. On paper, it’s a smart hire.
But it’s what’s happening behind the scenes that could shake things up.
Jim Schwartz, Cleveland’s defensive coordinator and a respected defensive mind across the league, was passed over for the head coaching job. That decision didn’t go unnoticed-especially by Myles Garrett, who posted a cryptic message on social media that raised more than a few eyebrows.
Garrett has thrived under Schwartz’s system, and it’s clear the two have built a strong rapport. So when Schwartz gets snubbed, and Garrett reacts publicly?
That’s not nothing.
Now, here’s where Detroit could turn Cleveland’s internal tension into a potential win.
If Schwartz decides he’s not sticking around after being overlooked, the Lions should absolutely be interested. Bringing him in as a senior defensive assistant or advisor under Kelvin Sheppard could be a savvy move.
Sheppard, who took over as defensive coordinator in 2025, showed real promise-but he was also dealt a tough hand. Injuries to key players like Terrion Arnold, Brian Branch, Kerby Joseph, and Ennis Rakestraw made it hard to get a full read on what his defense could truly be.
Adding Schwartz wouldn’t be a knock on Sheppard-it’d be giving him a veteran presence to lean on, someone who’s seen it all and can help elevate the unit. Think of it as a support system, not a safety net. Schwartz has a track record of building top-tier defenses, and if he’s available, it’d be hard to find a better football mind to bring into the building.
Of course, this all hinges on whether Schwartz actually leaves Cleveland. But if the writing is on the wall-and Garrett’s post suggests it might be-the Lions would be wise to make a call. The Browns’ loss could be Detroit’s gain, especially if they’re still looking to round out their staff with specialty roles that bring experience and insight to a young, ascending team.
In a league where coaching turnover is constant and continuity is rare, the Lions are in a position of strength. But that doesn’t mean they should stand pat.
If there’s a chance to add a mind like Jim Schwartz to the mix, it’s worth exploring. After all, in the margins of the coaching staff is often where championship teams are built.