Denzel Ward endorses Jim Schwartz for Browns HC: ‘Highly recommend’ defensive star’s blunt message to front office

Andy McNamara

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Denzel Ward endorses Jim Schwartz for Browns HC: ‘Highly recommend’ defensive star’s blunt message to front office image

Denzel Ward isn't holding back. After the Stefanski firing, the Browns star reveals why he's "highly recommending" Jim Schwartz for HC. See his blunt message to the front office.

For the entire 2025 season, the Browns' defense lived by a code: win as a team, lose as a team. But with Kevin Stefanski officially out, Pro Bowl cornerback Denzel Ward is finally dropping the "diplomatic" act.

Ward’s message for the next regime? The free rides for the offense and special teams needs to end.

More: Browns head coach tracker: Multiple candidates scheduled as Jim Schwartz and Tommy Rees prepare for interviews

“We need assertiveness,” Ward said, finally addressing the elephant in the room. “Just holding people accountable… holding the offensive guys to a higher standard.”

The stats back up his frustration. The Browns' five wins in 2025 were from defensive dominance, holding opponents like Pittsburgh and Miami to single digits. Yet, in 12 other games, the defense watched helplessly as the other two phases dragged the team down.

While Stefanski’s culture prevented finger-pointing, Ward is making it clear that the next head coach cannot be as "lax." He isn't asking for a friend; he’s demanding a leader who will bench anyone—regardless of their contract—who doesn't meet the standard.

Ward won't name names, but his "blunt" requirement is a warning shot to the locker room: the defensive carry is officially over.

So who is that type of head coach that Ward is looking for? The Ohio State alum, thinks the answer is already in the building.

Schwartz interviews for the Browns sideline boss job on Thursday with GM Andrew Berry.

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