Browns LB Carson Schwesinger Focused on What's Next After Rookie Honors

After a historic rookie season and Defensive Rookie of the Year award, the young linebacker is ready to build on his success.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 9:22pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a linebacker making a tackle, with sharp planes of earth-toned colors and no discernible faces or identifiable elements.A cubist interpretation of a Browns linebacker making a hard-hitting tackle, capturing the raw energy and intensity of the game.Berea Today

Browns linebacker Carson Schwesinger had a standout rookie season in 2025, leading all NFL rookies in tackles and tackles for loss while also recording 2.5 sacks, two interceptions, and 10 special teams tackles. He was named the NFL's Defensive Rookie of the Year, but now Schwesinger is focused on what's next as he adjusts to major coaching changes with the Browns.

Why it matters

Schwesinger's impressive rookie campaign was a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing 5-12 season for the Browns. As the team undergoes a coaching overhaul, Schwesinger will be a key part of the defense's continued development and the Browns' efforts to return to the playoffs.

The details

Schwesinger led all NFL rookies with 146 tackles and 11 tackles for loss in 2025, adding 2.5 sacks, two interceptions, three passes defended, and 10 special teams tackles. He was the only rookie linebacker with at least 11 tackles for loss and two interceptions. Schwesinger received 40 of 50 first-place votes to win Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. Now, he's focused on improving his preparation, film study, and ability to force turnovers as he adjusts to new head coach Todd Monken and defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg.

  • Schwesinger was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in February 2026.
  • The Browns' offseason program began in April 2026.

The players

Carson Schwesinger

A linebacker for the Cleveland Browns who had a standout rookie season in 2025, leading all NFL rookies in tackles and tackles for loss while also recording 2.5 sacks, two interceptions, and 10 special teams tackles. He was named the NFL's Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Todd Monken

The new head coach of the Cleveland Browns, who previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens.

Mike Rutenberg

The new defensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns, taking on his first coordinator job at the NFL level.

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What they’re saying

“I remember being in the draft meetings at (Baltimore) and them talking about Carson. I remember them speaking of what his superpower was, who he was. And then to see it when we played against them was impressive. Run, chase, hit, very instinctual, loves football. Outstanding leader. All of those things. And you're like, 'Well, they were right. I'm damn glad he's a Brown.'”

— Todd Monken, Head Coach, Cleveland Browns

“I think the response has been great. Obviously, everyone loves Schwartz and we all loved playing for him, but the mindset still is the same. We're going in and we're finding out how we can be the best defense we can be with the coaches that are around us. And we have great coaches around this year too.”

— Carson Schwesinger, Linebacker, Cleveland Browns

What’s next

Schwesinger will look to build on his Defensive Rookie of the Year campaign as he adjusts to the Browns' new coaching staff, led by head coach Todd Monken and defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg.

The takeaway

After a historic rookie season, Carson Schwesinger is focused on continued growth and improvement rather than dwelling on past accolades. As the Browns undergo a coaching overhaul, Schwesinger will be a key part of the team's efforts to return to the playoffs and compete for a Super Bowl.