Browns Remain Mum on Future of Defensive Coordinator Jim Schwartz

New head coach Todd Monken avoids directly addressing Schwartz's status amid reports he wants out of Cleveland.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 9:31am

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During Tuesday's introductory press conference for new Browns head coach Todd Monken, neither Monken nor team owner Jimmy Haslam or GM Andrew Berry provided any clarity on the future of defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, who is reportedly seeking to leave the organization despite being under contract through 2026. Monken praised Schwartz's defensive scheme and the team's talented defensive players, but repeatedly declined to comment on Schwartz's status, saying it was "inappropriate" to discuss at this time.

Why it matters

Schwartz's future with the Browns is a key storyline as the team transitions to a new head coach. Monken's reluctance to address Schwartz's status suggests there may be tension or uncertainty around the defensive coordinator's role going forward, which could impact the team's defensive continuity and player relationships.

The details

Monken said he has spoken to Schwartz but reiterated that the team's defense is about the talented players, not any one individual. Schwartz is under contract through 2026 but reportedly wants out of Cleveland after not getting the head coaching job. The Browns could release Schwartz from his contract, but that may come down to financial considerations, as a new team could potentially pay him less than what he is owed in Cleveland.

  • On Tuesday, the Browns formally introduced new head coach Todd Monken.

The players

Todd Monken

The new head coach of the Cleveland Browns.

Jimmy Haslam

The owner of the Cleveland Browns.

Andrew Berry

The general manager of the Cleveland Browns.

Jim Schwartz

The defensive coordinator of the Cleveland Browns, who is reportedly seeking to leave the organization despite being under contract through 2026.

Myles Garrett

A star defensive player for the Cleveland Browns.

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What they’re saying

“We think the world of Coach Schwartz. I think Jim and Jim's future is a subject for another day.”

— Jimmy Haslam, Owner, Cleveland Browns (nbcsports.com)

“Jim is an outstanding defensive coordinator, I think we all would agree with that. But I think it's a little inappropriate for me to comment about that at this time.”

— Todd Monken, Head Coach, Cleveland Browns (nbcsports.com)

“It's been a bitch, I apologize, to go against his defense six times over the last three years. Schematically, and more importantly the players. Because ultimately, it's a player's game — that's what it is. It's our job as coaches to develop systems that allow your players to play fast.”

— Todd Monken, Head Coach, Cleveland Browns (nbcsports.com)

The takeaway

The Browns' reluctance to address Jim Schwartz's future as defensive coordinator suggests potential tension or uncertainty around his role, which could impact the team's defensive continuity and player relationships as they transition to a new head coach. Monken's praise for Schwartz's defensive scheme and the team's talented defensive players indicates the Browns may prefer to keep Schwartz, but financial considerations or Schwartz's own desire to leave could complicate the situation.