The Baltimore Ravens have requested an interview with Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, raising questions about his future with the franchise.
Tom Pelissero of NFL Media first reported the request from the Ravens to speak to Schwartz.
“The Ravens requested an interview with Browns DC Jim Schwartz for their head coaching job, per source,” Pelissero said. “Schwartz also interviewed for Cleveland’s head coaching job and the team doesn’t want to lose him. But their AFC North rivals will speak with him.”
The Browns interviewed Schwartz for their head coaching opening last week. Even if he doesn’t land the head coaching job, Cleveland is set on keeping Schwartz, telling prospective coaches that their preference is to keep him in place as the leader of the defense, per Jay Glazer of FOX Sports.
Schwartz is the architect of the Browns’ stellar defense, which ranked No. 4 in the league in yards allowed per game (283.6). He has decades of NFL experience, including as a head coach with the Detroit Lions. Schwartz spent three seasons with Baltimore as their outside linebackers coach early in his career.
Browns Players Back Jim Schwartz for Head Coach Job
There’s a chance that the Ravens’ request could put additional pressure on the Browns as they consider Schwartz for their head coach opening. Many of the Browns’ top defensive players came out in support of Schwartz as a potential head coach.
“I have so much love and respect for coach Schwartz,” cornerback Denzel Ward said. “I would highly recommend coach Schwartz for a head coaching job here, definitely. He’s a great coach. He’s helped my game tremendously, puts us in great positions, great leader. I can’t say enough great things about him, but I think he’s a guy who you want in a coach and somebody to lead a team.”
Browns safety Grant Delpit echoed that sentiment.
“I think it goes without saying what kind of coach he is and the energy he brings,” Delpit said. “Look, I think Coach Schwartz is going to be a great, still-got-it type of head coach. He’s a fiery guy and I’d vouch for him.
“He’s taken our defense and brought it to an elite level and kept it there. So shoutout to Coach Schwartz.”
Browns Hold Talks With John Harbaugh
A notable target for the Browns head coach opening is John Harbaugh, who was fired by the Ravens. Harabugh has generated significant interest on the open market but is expected to take only a handful of interviews. However, the Browns are among the teams he has had “extensive phone calls” with.
“While the Falcons announced an official interview with former Ravens head coach John Harbaugh, he already has been conducting preliminary and extensive phone calls with the Giants, Titans, Browns, Raiders and Cardinals, per sources,” ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported. “He is trying to determine who to meet with later this week and into next week before making a decision. He is fully expected to coach in 2026.”
Harbaugh spent 18 seasons with the Ravens and compiled a 180-133 regular-season record. His tenure was highlighted by a Super Bowl XLVII victory.
Browns Rival Attempting to Poach Prized Coordinator