After an extensive search, the Cleveland Browns have turned to a familiar face to lead their team, officially hiring veteran offensive coordinator Todd Monken as head coach. The news was first reported by NFL Network insiders Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero, and Mike Garafolo on Wednesday and later confirmed by the team.
Monken, 59, was one of several finalists for the Browns’ vacancy, which emerged after Kevin Stefanski was fired earlier this month. Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, who led the NFL’s fourth-ranked defense in 2025 and was expected to be retained, was also considered. However, Schwartz reportedly became upset when passed over for the head coaching position and indicated he would not remain with the team despite being under contract.
Monken Brings Proven NFL, College Experience and Leadership to Browns Head Coaching Role
Monken brings extensive experience both with the Browns and across the AFC North. He spent the last three seasons as Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator, overseeing a transformation of quarterback Lamar Jackson’s passing game that helped Jackson secure his second NFL MVP award in 2023. Monken also previously served as Cleveland’s offensive coordinator in 2019 under Freddie Kitchens.
Todd Monken (NFL)Known as a play-caller and passing game architect, Monken’s coaching resume spans NFL and college football, including stops with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the University of Georgia, and as head coach of the Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles from 2013 to 2015. At Southern Miss, he led the program from a 4-20 record in his first two seasons to a 9-5 finish in 2015.
Browns owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam praised Monken’s experience and leadership in a statement. “Todd is highly intelligent, and his experienced, innovative offensive mindset has been at the forefront of constructing productive and successful offenses at the NFL and collegiate level over the last 20 years,” the statement read.
They highlighted his communication skills, player development focus, and ability to foster accountability and preparation. “We welcome Todd, Terri, and the rest of the Monken family back to the Browns and look forward to him establishing the winning culture that will lead our team to the success our fans so deserve,” the statement added.
Monken Emerges as Browns’ Top Choice, Ready to Rebuild Team Offense
Considered a dark-horse candidate, Monken was reportedly expected to join John Harbaugh in New York as Giants offensive coordinator if other opportunities did not materialize. Instead, he impressed the Browns’ search committee through two rounds of interviews, ultimately emerging as the top choice to replace Stefanski. The Browns’ hiring process had a unique focus on retaining Schwartz and pairing him with a young offensive mind, leading to interviews with candidates like Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinkski and Rams assistant Nate Scheelhaase. Ultimately, Monken’s experience and vision won out.
Returning to Cleveland, Monken faces a significant challenge. The Browns lack a defined quarterback, require upgrades at wide receiver, and need to rebuild an offensive line that contributed to a 30th-ranked offense in 2025. While the roster presents multiple hurdles, Monken’s track record and willingness to accept the role suggest he is ready to tackle the rebuild and craft a competitive team in the AFC North.
Monken’s appointment signals a commitment to innovation on offense while balancing leadership and accountability, setting the stage for a Browns team eager to rebound after a disappointing season.
