Cleveland Browns: Todd Monken Era Begins Amid Uncertainty Around Jim Schwartz
There’s a new head coach in Cleveland, but not everything is settled in Berea. While Todd Monken steps into the top job with a clear vision for the Browns’ future, one major piece of the puzzle-defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz-remains in limbo.
NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reports that Schwartz appears to want out, while the Browns would prefer he stays. So far, there’s been no resolution, and the situation remains fluid.
Monken's Vision: Leading a Young Roster
General Manager Andrew Berry made it clear why Monken was the choice: leadership, development, and growth. “We wanted someone that can lead, develop and grow a young team,” Berry said, noting that if the Browns aren’t the youngest team in the league in 2026, they’ll be close. That’s a clear signal that this is a long-term build, and Monken is expected to be the architect of that growth.
Monken, for his part, is embracing the challenge. He made it known that the Week 1 starting quarterback hasn’t been decided yet, but he’s excited about coaching Shedeur Sanders and the rest of the roster. That kind of open competition at QB isn’t just coachspeak-it reflects how early this team is in its new phase.
Reflecting on 2019 and Looking Ahead
Monken isn’t new to Cleveland. He served as offensive coordinator in 2019, a season that didn’t go according to plan.
But he’s not shying away from that experience. “I learned a lot in that 2019 season,” he said.
“I think you learn a heck of a lot more when things aren’t going well.” That kind of perspective matters-it shows a coach who’s grown through adversity and is ready to apply those lessons in his second go-round.
The Schwartz Question
Monken confirmed he’s spoken with Schwartz, but when asked directly about whether the veteran DC will return, he kept it respectful and vague. “It’s been a bitch to go against his defense the last 3 years, schematically and more importantly the players,” Monken said.
That’s high praise for a coach whose units have made life difficult for opposing offenses. But when pressed further, Monken declined to speculate: “It’s inappropriate for me to comment about that at this time.”
One thing Monken did make clear-regardless of who’s calling the shots on defense, the system will stay in place. “We’re not changing the system.
It’s a very difficult system to go against,” he said. “The defensive players were one of the reasons I took this job.
I didn’t take this job because of Jim Schwartz.” That’s a critical distinction.
Monken is committed to the identity the Browns have built on defense, even if the architect of that system isn’t guaranteed to return.
Owner Jimmy Haslam echoed that sentiment, saying simply, “Jim and Jim’s future is a subject for another day.” That’s not exactly a vote of confidence, but it does suggest the door is still open.
Offensive Identity: Flexibility and Play-Calling
On offense, Monken isn’t boxing himself into one scheme. He emphasized the importance of tailoring the system to the talent on the roster. That’s a modern approach and one that could pay dividends, especially with a young, evolving core.
Monken also confirmed he’ll be calling plays himself. That continuity between game planning and play calling can be a huge advantage, especially for a team trying to establish a new offensive identity.
If Schwartz Leaves, Who Steps Up?
If Schwartz does move on, the Browns may already have options lined up. Internally, linebackers coach Jason Tarver is a name to watch.
He’s familiar with the current system and has been part of its success. Externally, Texans pass game coordinator Cory Undlin could be a fit-he’s worked with Monken before and brings experience to the table.
Final Takeaway
This is a pivotal offseason for the Browns. With a new head coach, a young roster, and a potential change looming on defense, Cleveland is at a crossroads.
Monken’s arrival brings energy and a clear sense of direction. But whether that momentum continues may hinge on how the Schwartz situation plays out-and who ends up calling the shots on defense when Week 1 rolls around.