The Cleveland Browns are taking a hard stance on defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz as they continue to interview for interviews for their head coaching vacancies.
Schwartz is the architect of the Browns’ stellar defense, which ranked No. 4 in the league in yards allowed per game (283.6). Cleveland’s preference is that whoever comes in keep Schwartz in his role.
“They are telling all candidates they want to keep Jim Schwartz in there as the defensive coordinator,” Jay Glazer of FOX Sports said.
The Browns do have interest in some defensive-minded candidates, including Seattle Seahawks defensive coordinator Aden Durde and Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter.
Other potential candidates include Los Angeles Rams pass game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase, Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken, Cincinnati Bengals offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher and former head coaches John Harbaugh and Mike McDaniel.
Schefter: Browns ‘Absolutely’ Looking at Offensive-Minded Coach
Cleveland finished 5-12 but the defense was not part of the issue. ESPN’s Adam Schefter said the team needs to look for a head coach who can help rebuild the offense.
“I don’t think the Cleveland Browns can hire a defensive-minded head coach and keep that defense together the way it is for this reason,” Schefter said. “Their defensive coordinator, Jim Schwartz, has done a tremendous job and is respected around the league. If they hire a defensive-minded head coach — Brian Flores, Jesse Minter, Steve Spagnuolo — Jim Schwartz is not going to be happy and they will lose him.
“For the Browns, you are absolutely looking at an offensive-minded head coach so you can retain your defensive coordinator who is sought after. If they lose Schwartz, that defense steps back. The defense is taken care of. You don’t want to mess with something that’s successful. Let’s get the offense humming and get the quarterback right.”
Browns Interviewed Jim Schwartz for Job
The Browns have already interviewed Schwartz for their head coaching job. Cleveland general manager Andrew Berry spoke highly of Schwartz in his end-of-season interview.
“So first with Jim, Jim’s an outstanding football coach,” Berry said. “We have a lot of respect for him, a lot of appreciation for him, and he has certainly earned the right for consideration, but that’s something that we still have to discuss and obviously discuss with him.”
Schwartz also has the respect of his players, who have backed him as a candidate.
“So much love and respect for Coach Schwartz. Me, I would highly recommend coach Schwartz for a head coaching job here, definitely,” Browns Pro Bowl cornerback Denzel Ward said. “Like I said before, he’s a great coach. He’s helped my game tremendously. Puts us in great position, great leader, and I can’t say enough great things about him.
“I think he’s a guy who you want in a coach and somebody to lead a team. And yeah, I know he’s the guy. He’s a great guy.”
The Browns also interviewed offensive coordinator Tommy Rees for the position. Rees is highly thought of in the building but appears a long shot to land the job.
Browns Make Feelings Clear on Jim Schwartz During Latest Interviews