The Cleveland Browns took a subtle shot at defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz while introducing new head coach Todd Monken on Tuesday.
Schwartz was one of the finalists for Cleveland’s head coaching job. The Browns ultimately decided to go with Monken, a 59-year-old known for his offensive mind. That didn’t sit well with Schwartz, who reportedly stormed out of the building, cleaned out his office, and told those close to him he was done with the Browns after hearing the news. The Browns poured a little more fuel on the fire during Monken’s introduction.
“Todd stood head and shoulders above the rest,” Browns general manager Andrew Berry said.
Browns owner Jimmy Haslam echoed that sentiment.
“I would say Todd was at the top of the list the entire time. I think our search lasted 20 days and I’d say he was leading the pack or in the front pack the entire time, too,” Haslam said.
Those are some telling statements from Haslam and Berry, especially if they’re still trying to retain Schwartz, who is salty about how things ended up. Schwartz is under contract for next season.
Monken: I Didn’t Take Browns Job Because of Jim Schwartz
Monken takes over a Browns team that has a ready-made defense. While the Browns finished 5-12, they ranked No. 4 in the NFL in yards allowed per game (283.6) last season. But Monken credited the unit’s success to the players — like Myles Garrett and Denzel Ward — rather than to Schwartz directly.
“We’re not planning to change the (defensive) system,” Monken said. “We’re built for the system the (players are) in currently. I’m not gonna get into staffing (today) because it’s not the time to get into that, but (the players) can be rest assured we’re going to keep the same system.”
Monken declined to provide any details on whether he’s chatted with Schwartz.
“I didn’t take this job because of Jim Schwartz. I have a lot of respect for Jim Schwartz as I would hope he has for me. But I took it because of the players that are here, the ownership, Andrew Berry, and the ability to build this from the ground up on the offensive side,” Monken said. “When I was preparing for the Cleveland Browns, I wasn’t trying to chip Jim Schwartz. I was chipping Myles Garrett. When I was sliding the protection to the outside ‘backers or Grant Delpit blitzing off the edge, I was sliding the protection to the players. And when I was worried about throwing to the right against Denzel Ward or Tyson Campbell to the left, that’s who I was worried about throwing at.”
Browns Shift Focus From Jim Schwartz
Schwartz was an obvious topic to touch on as Monken was introduced as the next head coach. But Haslam wanted to keep the focus on Monken.
“I think Jim and Jim’s future is a subject for another day,” Haslam said. “Those conversations are ongoing. We’ll talk about that at a later day. Today is to introduce Todd Monken as the new head coach.”
Much of the defensive staff is expected to stay. That includes defensive line coach Jacques Cesaire, linebackers coach Jason Tarver, safeties coach Ephraim Banda, and cornerbacks coach Brandon Lynch
“We have really good players. And it starts there. Obviously, it helps to have a great coordinator and a great staff,” Haslam said. “I think Jim would tell you the four leaders of the defensive line, linebackers, cornerbacks and safeties are all outstanding coaches. So, we’re excited moving forward.”
Browns Shade Jim Schwartz as Monken Introduced