Analyst Names 4 Internal Candidates Likely To Replace Jim Schwartz

Browns fans await news on who will take over as defensive coordinator after Schwartz's resignation.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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After Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz announced his resignation, analyst Scott Petrak named four internal candidates who could replace him: Ephraim Banda, Jason Tarver, Brandon Lynch, and Jacques Cesaire. All four coaches have experience on the Browns' staff and were part of the team's highly-ranked defense in 2025.

Why it matters

The Browns' defense was one of the best in the league last season, so finding the right replacement for Schwartz will be crucial to maintaining that success. An internal hire could provide continuity and familiarity with the team's personnel and system.

The details

Petrak believes the Browns will likely promote from within to replace Schwartz, with Banda, Tarver, Lynch, and Cesaire as the top candidates. Banda has coached safeties since 2023, Tarver has been the linebackers coach since 2020, Lynch has coached defensive backs, and Cesaire has led the defensive line since 2023 after a 9-year NFL playing career.

  • On February 8, 2026, analyst Scott Petrak discussed the Browns' defensive coordinator search on 92.3 The Fan.

The players

Jim Schwartz

The former Browns defensive coordinator who announced his resignation.

Ephraim Banda

The Browns' safeties coach since 2023, with over 10 years of collegiate coaching experience.

Jason Tarver

The Browns' linebackers coach since 2020, who helped develop rookie Defensive Rookie of the Year Carson Schwesinger.

Brandon Lynch

The Browns' defensive backs coach and cornerbacks coach since 2020.

Jacques Cesaire

The Browns' defensive line coach since 2023, who played 9 seasons in the NFL with the Chargers.

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What they’re saying

“I agree that it might be an internal promotion, whether that's Ephraim Banda, Jason Tarver, Brandon Lynch, Jacques Cesaire.”

— Scott Petrak, Writer (92.3 The Fan)

The takeaway

The Browns have several experienced in-house candidates to replace the departing Jim Schwartz as defensive coordinator, which could provide stability and continuity for a defense that was one of the league's best in 2025.