The Browns are first in line for losing every coordinator after passing on promoting defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz and opting to hire Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported shortly after Cleveland officially announced the hiring that Schwartz was “visibly upset,” telling coaches in the building he’s not coming back. Essentially, the Browns may have cost themselves the chance to retain Schwartz, despite him having one year left on his contract.
Additionally, reports indicate Monken wanted to retain Schwartz, but given the reaction, that doesn’t seem likely, unless this was simply an emotional outburst. I don’t get the feeling that’s the case; it seems to be a genuine goodbye to the Browns organization.
Jim Schwartz is expected to draw interest for defensive coordinator positions from coast to coast, with the 49ers immediately coming to mind. There are plenty of other teams that could be a good fit, but Schwartz replacing Robert Saleh in San Francisco would be a standout move.
We’ll have to wait and see how this unfolds. Technically, Schwartz is still under contract, but it’s hard to imagine the Browns being that stingy, though that remains to be seen.