The Cleveland Browns are working against the clock this offseason after a major shake-up on their coaching staff left one of the league’s top defenses without a leader. Following the hiring of former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken as head coach, longtime defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz stepped down – forcing the franchise into an urgent search for his replacement.
The decision carries weight beyond coaching continuity. With the team evaluating its long-term quarterback outlook – and potential prospects like Shedeur Sanders looming in future plans – Cleveland must get its defensive identity right to stay competitive during a transitional period.
Browns narrow defensive coordinator candidates
Despite offensive struggles in 2025, Cleveland’s defense remained the backbone of the roster. Led by Myles Garrett’s pass rush and a deep secondary, the unit consistently kept the team in games. Losing Schwartz therefore created a complicated challenge: change leadership without changing philosophy.
Monken has made it clear he wants to preserve the existing scheme rather than start from scratch. As a result, familiarity with Schwartz’s system has become the top requirement in the search.
According to reports, the organization has now scheduled in-person interviews with three leading candidates.
Browns conducting in-person defensive coordinator interviews this weekend, including Texans pass-game coordinator Cory Undlin. Cleveland linebackers coach Jason Tarver and Falcons pass-game coordinator Mike Rutenberg also remain firmly in the mix.
Undlin and Tarver are widely viewed as the favorites due to their prior experience working under Schwartz, while Rutenberg represents a more unconventional option who could introduce new concepts.
The urgency is understandable. Cleveland’s defense wasn’t just productive – it masked roster weaknesses. Replicating that success will be difficult without continuity.
Why the hire matters for Cleveland’s future
The Browns’ offseason has already been turbulent. Schwartz’s departure came after he was bypassed for the head coaching job, despite his defense carrying the team through a disappointing offensive campaign. Now Monken must prove he can maintain the same competitive edge while reshaping the franchise’s direction.
For a team evaluating its quarterback future and long-term roster structure, defensive stability becomes even more crucial. A strong unit buys time for offensive development and protects younger talent adjusting to the NFL level.
That’s why familiarity appears to outweigh experimentation in Cleveland’s approach. Promoting someone who understands the scheme reduces risk and allows players to transition smoothly into a new era under Monken.
However, the Browns’ coaching search has already shown unpredictability – Monken himself emerged late to win the head coaching job – meaning nothing is guaranteed until the decision is official.
With interviews underway and pressure mounting, Cleveland’s next hire could shape not only the 2026 season but the trajectory of the franchise moving forward. If the Browns hope to support future offensive growth while remaining competitive in a tough AFC, choosing the right defensive coordinator may be their most important move of the offseason.
