The decision ends a drawn-out process in which defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz was widely expected to be promoted. When that didn’t occur, Schwartz reportedly expressed unhappiness about the outcome.
Schwartz has overseen one of the NFL’s better defenses in Cleveland, a unit buoyed by Myles Garrett’s dominance. Garrett broke the single-season sacks record in 2025, with Denzel Ward remaining one of the league’s top cornerbacks and the 2025 draft adding linebacker Carson Schwesinger to the mix.
Offense, by contrast, has been the Browns’ persistent issue, marked by inconsistent quarterback play and injuries along the offensive line. Those struggles were a central reason behind Stefanski’s dismissal.
Monken arrives after two productive seasons coordinating the Ravens’ offense, including work with Lamar Jackson. In Cleveland, he will have to implement his scheme without Jackson, making the QB and offensive-line groups even more critical to his success.
Garrett’s Instagram reaction to the coaching drama reflected the frustration surrounding Cleveland’s recent process, underscoring the broader mood in the locker room as the franchise shifts direction.
Moving forward, the Browns will focus on leveraging their strong defense while rebuilding offensive continuity under Monken, as they prepare for the 2026 season with a new coaching staff and system.
