Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz had a bold message after being passed up for the head-coaching job.
The Cleveland Browns hired former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken as their next head coach. In the process, they passed on defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz for the job.
After Schwartz was informed, he was upset and told coaches that he wouldn't be coming back. Schwartz is under contract as the Browns' defensive coordinator, and they want to bring him back, but it will be a hurdle to overcome.
Schwartz's reaction makes sense, as he was hoping for the promotion. Staying with the organization would be great for Cleveland's defense. Schwartz has consistently had the Browns as one of the best defenses in football, maximizing players like Myles Garrett.
Garrett is poised to win his second Defensive Player of the Year award after a record-breaking 2025 season, as he had 23 sacks, breaking the record previously held by Michael Strahan and T.J. Watt.
Schwartz has also helped develop young players, such as rookie linebacker Carson Schwesinger. Schwesinger is projected to win the Defensive Rookie of the Year award, finishing with 156 total tackles, two interceptions, 2.5 sacks, and 11 tackles for loss.
The Browns' defense had the third-most sacks in the league with 53, allowed the third-lowest passing yards, and forced the third-most fumbles.
They were able to win some games due to the elite defense, and if the offense improves in the 2026 season, they could make it to the postseason.
If Schwartz does not return, Cleveland will have a tall task ahead to replace him. He has spent the last three seasons as the defensive coordinator and would immediately be a top candidate on the market if he leaves the Browns.
However, with Cleveland still having Schwartz under contract, it could make an ugly situation. Monken faced off against Schwartz twice a year during his time with the Ravens and likely has a ton of respect for him.
While the Browns finally have their next head coach to replace Kevin Stefanski in Monken, the offseason drama is far from over with the Schwartz situation still playing out. Cleveland is no stranger to drama with their football team, and it continues in the 2026 offseason.
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