Browns' Carson Schwesinger Aims to Build on Rookie Breakout

Linebacker looks to take next step after winning Defensive Rookie of the Year

Apr. 11, 2026 at 10:04am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a linebacker making a tackle, with sharp planes of brown, grey, and green overlapping to create a dynamic, abstract representation of the action.Schwesinger's aggressive, instinctive style of play is captured in a cubist deconstruction of a key defensive moment.Cleveland Today

Browns linebacker Carson Schwesinger had a standout rookie season, leading all first-year players with 146 tackles and earning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. Now, Schwesinger is focused on building on that success as he enters his second year in the league.

Why it matters

Schwesinger's emergence as a defensive playmaker was a bright spot for the Browns in an otherwise disappointing 2025 season. His continued development could be crucial for a Browns defense looking to take a step forward and help the team return to the playoffs.

The details

Schwesinger led all rookies with 146 tackles, the most by a Cleveland rookie in the expansion era, and added 11 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, and two interceptions. He had his best game against the Ravens, recording 10 solo tackles, 16 combined tackles, and two tackles for loss.

  • Schwesinger was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2025.
  • The Browns began their voluntary offseason program in early April 2026.

The players

Carson Schwesinger

A linebacker for the Cleveland Browns who had a standout rookie season, leading all first-year players with 146 tackles and earning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year honors.

Todd Monken

The head coach of the Cleveland Browns, who previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens and was impressed by Schwesinger's performance against his team.

Mike Rutenberg

The new defensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns, who will be overseeing Schwesinger's development in his second season.

Jason Tarver

The Browns' linebacker coach, who has a strong connection with Schwesinger from their shared California and UCLA backgrounds.

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What they’re saying

“I remember being in the draft meetings at the place I was previously and them talking about Carson. I, obviously, I didn't do it as the offensive coordinator. 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, Browns Head Coach

“Yeah, that was pretty cool. My whole family was there, which was cool to share that with all them and just to be able to see that's a great honor. But now I guess the mindset is just what's next. Keep building off of it.”

— Carson Schwesinger, Browns Linebacker

What’s next

Schwesinger will continue to work on improving his football knowledge and intelligence, as well as finding better ways to attack the ball and force turnovers, as he prepares for his second NFL season.

The takeaway

Schwesinger's breakout rookie campaign has set high expectations for the young linebacker, and his continued development could be a key factor in the Browns' defensive success in 2026 and beyond.