Monken is renowned for his quarterback tutoring and offensively focused design, and he previously worked with MVP Lamar Jackson during his tenure in Baltimore. The Browns’ decision underscores a belief that Monken’s background could address Cleveland’s evolving offensive needs.
Harbaugh’s firing on January 6 came after 18 seasons and 13 playoff appearances, with one of the sticking points reportedly his refusal to fire Monken. The succession plan also intersected with Harbaugh’s immediate career move, as he was later reported to be hired by the New York Giants.
Reports in 2025 indicated a souring relationship between Jackson and Monken, rooted in chemistry issues and Monken’s hard-driving coaching style, despite two previously successful seasons together in Baltimore.
The Browns enter a challenging quarterback landscape under Monken, with Deshaun Watson under contract and two quarterbacks drafted in 2025—Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. Cleveland used three quarterbacks in 2025 (Sanders, Gabriel, and Joe Flacco), with Sanders ultimately earning a Pro Bowl roster spot.
With Monken’s appointment, only two NFL head coaching openings remain— Las Vegas and Arizona— highlighting a notable shift as Cleveland seeks to stabilize its offensive system and quarterback development under a first-time head coach.
