NFL Head Coach Praises New Mizzou Offensive Coordinator Chip Lindsey as 'Elite Coach'

Cleveland Browns' Todd Monken, who worked with Lindsey at Southern Miss, highlights his former coordinator's versatility and ability to develop quarterbacks.

Feb. 25, 2026 at 8:06pm

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Missouri's new offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey has an extensive background working under various offensive schemes and mentoring successful quarterbacks, including Nick Mullens at Southern Miss. Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken, who previously worked with Lindsey as his offensive coordinator, praised Lindsey's adaptability, player development skills, and ability to call plays, saying he's an 'elite football coach'.

Why it matters

Lindsey's hiring as Missouri's new offensive coordinator is seen as a major coup for head coach Eli Drinkwitz, who wanted an experienced play-caller to take over the offense and allow Drinkwitz to focus on other head coaching duties. Lindsey's versatility and track record of developing quarterbacks could be a big boost for the Tigers' offense.

The details

Lindsey served as Monken's offensive coordinator at Southern Miss from 2014-2015, where he helped develop quarterback Nick Mullens into a standout player. Monken trusted Lindsey enough to hand over play-calling duties, which allowed Monken to focus on other aspects of being a head coach. At Southern Miss, Lindsey's offense was built around a wide-open passing attack, but he has also coordinated offenses centered around option runs and RPOs at other stops.

  • Lindsey was Southern Miss' offensive coordinator from 2014-2015.
  • Monken is entering his first season as the Cleveland Browns' head coach in 2026.

The players

Chip Lindsey

Missouri's new offensive coordinator, known for his versatility in running different offensive schemes and ability to develop quarterbacks.

Todd Monken

Cleveland Browns head coach, previously worked with Lindsey as his offensive coordinator at Southern Miss.

Nick Mullens

Quarterback who Lindsey mentored at Southern Miss, now entering his 10th NFL season.

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What they’re saying

“He's an elite football coach, connects with the players, great staff guy, adaptable systematically, He's not aligned to just one scheme.”

— Todd Monken, Cleveland Browns Head Coach

What’s next

Lindsey will look to bring his versatile offensive approach and quarterback development skills to help boost Missouri's offense under head coach Eli Drinkwitz.

The takeaway

Lindsey's hiring represents a significant addition to Mizzou's coaching staff, as he brings a proven track record of coordinating diverse offensive schemes and mentoring successful quarterbacks at both the college and NFL levels.