Jim Schwartz Resigns from Browns, Creating a Potential 2027 Pivot Point for Eagles
There was a moment of real unease in Philadelphia recently - the kind of uncertainty that sends shockwaves through a franchise. When word got out that Vic Fangio was considering retirement, the Eagles found themselves staring down the possibility of losing one of the most respected defensive minds in the game. And while Fangio ultimately decided to stay on as defensive coordinator, the Eagles didn’t sit on their hands during that window of doubt.
Behind the scenes, the team reached out to a couple of familiar names: Jonathan Gannon and Jim Schwartz - both former Eagles DCs - to gauge interest in a potential reunion. Fangio’s return put those conversations on pause, but now, Schwartz is back in the picture in a big way.
According to multiple reports, Schwartz has officially resigned from his role as defensive coordinator of the Cleveland Browns. He’s expected to sit out the 2026 season, but all signs point to him being back in the mix come 2027 - and that could line up perfectly with the Eagles’ long-term outlook.
A Familiar Face with Championship Pedigree
Schwartz isn’t just a recognizable name in Philly - he’s a proven winner. He ran the Eagles’ defense from 2016 to 2020, a stretch that included the franchise’s first Super Bowl title in 2017.
During his five-year stint, Schwartz’s units finished in the top 15 in both total defense and points allowed in three different seasons. His scheme was aggressive, his fronts were disruptive, and his ability to maximize talent was never in question.
It’s no surprise, then, that the Eagles circled back to him when Fangio’s status was up in the air. And now, with Schwartz stepping away from Cleveland, the door might be open for a reunion - just not quite yet.
Schwartz’s Stock Remains Sky-High
What Schwartz did in Cleveland this past season only reinforced his value. Despite the Browns struggling to find consistency on offense and finishing with just five wins, his defense was elite - second in the league in total defense. That kind of production, especially in a tough AFC North, speaks volumes.
So while Schwartz may be taking a year off, he won’t be short on offers when he’s ready to return. Teams across the league will be lining up for a shot at bringing him in. But for the Eagles, the connection runs deeper - and the timing could be just right.
Planning for the Future in Philadelphia
This offseason served as a wake-up call for the Eagles. Fangio’s brief flirtation with retirement showed just how quickly things can shift. It’s a reminder that even the best-laid plans need a contingency - and Schwartz could be the perfect one.
He knows the organization. He’s succeeded under the bright lights of Philly.
And he’s still operating at an elite level as a defensive coordinator. If Fangio does decide to call it a career after the 2026 season, the Eagles might already have their ideal successor waiting in the wings.
For now, it’s business as usual in Philadelphia with Fangio back at the controls. But make no mistake - if 2027 brings another change at the top of the defense, Jim Schwartz could be the first call the Eagles make.