The Cleveland Browns have hired former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken as their next head coach. Monken, who turns 60 next week, replaces Kevin Stefanski – who was dismissed after Cleveland finished near the bottom of the league for the second straight year. The Browns retained general manager Andrew Berry, who will work closely with Monken as the team reshapes its roster and long-term strategy.
Browns owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam said in a statement: “Todd is an outstanding leader with a clear vision,” citing his communication skills, accountability, and focus on player development. Berry added that Monken’s adaptability and experience with different quarterbacks and systems make him a strong fit for a young, evolving roster.
A familiar face in Cleveland, Monken previously served as the Browns’ offensive coordinator in 2019, when he helped fuel a powerful running game led by Nick Chubb, who rushed for nearly 1,500 yards. He spent the last three seasons calling plays in Baltimore, where his offenses consistently ranked among the NFL’s best. In 2024, the Ravens led the league in both total and rushing offense, and quarterback Lamar Jackson reached career highs in passing production.
Before rejoining the NFL, Monken orchestrated Georgia’s explosive offense during a dominant three-year college run, guiding the Bulldogs to two national championships and a 37-3 overall record. His success in Athens paved the way for his return to pro football, where his creative schemes and aggressive style quickly drew league-wide attention.
Cleveland’s coaching search stretched across several weeks and included interviews with defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, Rams passing game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase, and Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski. Other top candidates, including Mike McDaniel and Jesse Minter, withdrew from consideration, ultimately clearing the path for Monken to emerge as the front-runner.
Monken inherits a defense that has been among the league’s best since Schwartz arrived in 2023, though it remains uncertain whether Schwartz will stay under the new regime. The Browns hold the sixth and 24th overall picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, along with 10 total selections, giving Monken and Berry ample flexibility to reshape the roster.
Editorial credit: kovop / Shutterstock.com