The Cleveland Browns had another miserable season in 2025, and as a result, head coach Kevin Stefanski was fired.
Stefanski has already landed his new gig, as he will become the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons. The Browns, meanwhile, continue to interview candidates for their vacancy.
One name that has gotten significant attention is Jim Schwartz. Schwartz has been the defensive coordinator of the Browns since 2023, and the unit was one of the best in the league in 2025.
Schwartz has been scheduled for two interviews with the Browns, but there may be another familiar face who's an even better fit. PFSN's Jack Aaron believes Todd Monken will end up being the team's choice for head coach.
Monken has been the offensive coordinator for the Ravens since 2023. However, John Harbaugh was fired after the 2025 season, meaning Monken likely isn't going back to Baltimore. It's been reported that Harbaugh wants to bring Monken to New York, but the assistant may prefer to be a head coach if given the opportunity.
Regarding Monken and the Browns, Aaron offered the following:
Monken may not have had the strongest relationship with Lamar Jackson, but he was still a key architect of Jackson’s 2023 MVP campaign. He has a proven track record as an offensive coordinator at both the NFL and collegiate levels, tailoring schemes to fit his quarterback’s strengths. While not the most glamorous option, Cleveland did request a second interview with him. If defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz could be retained, the hire could prove quietly effective.
As Aaron mentioned, Monken may be a perfect choice for the Browns do to his offensive prowess. The move would be even better if Schwartz agreed to stay on as Monken's defensive coordinator.
Monken has never been an NFL head coach, but he's been one in college and has plenty of experience as an NFL coordinator. The coach is familiar to the Browns, as he was the team's offensive coordinator in 2019.
The Browns have also had to play against Monken's offenses in Baltimore twice a year, so they know what they'd be getting. It would be interesting to see what Monken could do with Shedeur Sanders at quarterback.
Monken wouldn't be the sexiest hire, but he would almost certainly improve the team's dreadful offense. The Browns already have one of the best defenses in the league, so fielding even an average offense could make them a playoff team.
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