Monken, Schwartz, and Los Angeles Rams pass-game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase were the three finalists to replace Kevin Stefanski, with the Browns hoping Monken can rebuild an offense that struggled to find consistency last season.
According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Schwartz did not react well to the news, telling people he was “done” with the Browns after learning he wouldn’t get the job. The report notes that several players, including Myles Garrett, have a strong affinity for Schwartz, and that any acrimony could lead to internal tensions given Schwartz’s contract status.
Cleveland.com’s Ashley Bastock cautioned that passing over Schwartz could carry significant locker-room consequences, particularly for players who admire him. Garrett and Denzel Ward, in particular, have a strong connection to Schwartz, and Bastock warned the ripple effects could be difficult to predict.
Defensively, the Browns were strong under Schwartz, finishing with the fourth-fewest total yards allowed per game (283.6) and the third-fewest passing yards per game (167.2). They also set a franchise record with 53 sacks and tied for second in the NFL with eight defensive touchdowns.
Offensively, Monken’s hire is aimed at reviving a unit that ranked near the bottom in several categories, averaging 262.1 total yards and 16.4 points per game. Rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders reacted to the news with a social post saying “Time for work,” while Deshaun Watson and Dillon Gabriel remain under contract and other quarterback options could be pursued via free agency, a trade, or the draft.
The decision places Monken in a position to shape Cleveland’s offensive identity while raising questions about potential fallout on the defensive side. The Browns will monitor Schwartz’s status and locker-room dynamics as they move forward with leadership changes and quarterback planning.
