The Cleveland Browns have officially ended their head coach search by hiring Todd Monken as the franchise’s next head coach. Monken, 59, becomes the 23rd head coach in Browns history and returns to Cleveland after previously serving as the team’s offensive coordinator.
Monken’s prior stint in Cleveland was brief and controversial, with sev
eral problematic comments made toward the end of his tenure as offensive coordinator. Despite that history, the Browns chose Monken following a turbulent coaching search that included multiple candidate withdrawals.
Staff Moves and Immediate FalloutCleveland Browns Hire Todd Monken as Head Coach
Monken has already begun assembling his coaching staff. One of his first additions is George Warhop, a veteran offensive line coach who has served under three different Browns head coaches and follows Monken from Baltimore.
However, the hire has led to significant fallout within the organization. Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, who was under contract and reportedly a finalist for the head coaching job, is not planning to return. Multiple reports indicate Schwartz was upset after being passed over, and his departure could have ripple effects across the defensive roster.
Special teams coordinator Bubba Ventrone is also expected to leave, with the Los Angeles Rams emerging as a likely destination.
Fan and Media Reaction
Reaction to the Monken hire has been mixed. Some fans expressed surprise, noting that Monken was viewed as a lower-tier candidate compared to younger, more innovative options. Others see him as a “safe” and experienced choice after a chaotic search process.
Media outlets across the league echoed similar sentiments, framing the hire as unexpected but stabilizing. Several reports emphasized that Monken’s recent success as the Baltimore Ravens’ offensive coordinator played a major role in Cleveland’s decision.
What’s Next for the Browns
With Monken in place, the Browns now face several key decisions:
- Finalizing their defensive and special teams leadership
- Managing potential player dissatisfaction following Schwartz’s exit
- Continuing draft preparations, including evaluations at the 2026 Senior Bowl, where Browns coaches and scouts are already active
The Monken era in Cleveland has officially begun—bringing both optimism and uncertainty as the organization looks to turn the page.