Browns Star Myles Garrett Committed to Staying Despite Coaching Change

Garrett expressed disappointment over defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz not getting the head coaching job, but the team expects him to remain in Cleveland.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 4:07pm

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Cleveland Browns star defensive end Myles Garrett went viral on social media after the team hired Todd Monken as their new head coach, seemingly expressing disappointment that his beloved defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz did not get the job. However, the Browns are confident Garrett will remain with the team, having signed him to a long-term contract extension last year. The team hopes Schwartz will return for the final two years of his contract to continue leading the Browns' dominant defense.

Why it matters

Garrett is one of the NFL's elite defensive players and a key part of the Browns' future plans. His potential unhappiness with the coaching change could have created tension, but the team appears committed to keeping him in Cleveland long-term despite the change.

The details

Garrett, who is coming off back-to-back Defensive Player of the Year seasons, posted a cryptic social media message that seemed to indicate his disappointment with Schwartz not getting the head coaching job. Schwartz reportedly packed up his office and told some staffers he wasn't returning, though the Browns are hopeful he will stay. The team kept Garrett informed throughout the coaching search and don't expect him to request a trade, having signed him to a lucrative extension last year that runs through 2030.

  • Garrett posted the social media message on the day Todd Monken was hired as Browns head coach.
  • Garrett is heading into the final season of his current contract in 2026.

The players

Myles Garrett

A star defensive end for the Cleveland Browns who has been named Defensive Player of the Year twice and is considered a likely future Hall of Famer.

Jim Schwartz

The Browns' defensive coordinator who was passed over for the head coaching job, despite strong endorsements from Garrett and other players.

Todd Monken

The new head coach of the Cleveland Browns, hired after the team's previous coaching search.

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What they’re saying

“I'm going to allow them to do what they do, give my opinions as they ask for it. And then I've got to rock with whoever they have here, but love Jim and I love playing for him.”

— Myles Garrett (cleveland.com)

What’s next

The Browns are hopeful that Jim Schwartz will return for the final two years of his contract to continue leading their dominant defense, which would be crucial for keeping Myles Garrett happy and productive in Cleveland.

The takeaway

Despite Myles Garrett's apparent disappointment over the Browns' coaching change, the team remains committed to keeping their star defensive end in Cleveland long-term. The Browns' ability to retain Schwartz or find another defensive coordinator that Garrett respects will be key to maintaining harmony and continuing the team's defensive success.