The Cleveland Browns have officially named Todd Monken as their new head coach, according to multiple reports, concluding a tumultuous search process marked by several high-profile withdrawals. Monken, who served as the offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens over the past three seasons, steps into the role after a slew of candidates passed on the opportunity to lead the franchise.
A Rocky Coaching Search for the Browns
This appointment comes after a three-week period where the Browns saw more individuals withdraw their names from consideration than advance to finalist stages. Notable withdrawals included Grant Udinski, who opted to remain with the Jacksonville Jaguars as offensive coordinator, and candidates like Mike McDaniel and Jesse Minter, who canceled scheduled second interviews. McDaniel has since joined the Los Angeles Chargers, while Minter was named head coach of the Baltimore Ravens.
Monken's Background and Challenges Ahead
Todd Monken brings a mix of NFL and collegiate experience to Cleveland. He previously worked as the offensive coordinator for the Browns in 2019 under Freddie Kitchens and later moved to the University of Georgia, where he helped secure national titles in 2021 and 2022. With the Ravens, he oversaw an offense that ranked second in rushing yards per game this season and led the league in total offense in 2024, achieving a historic milestone of over 4,000 passing and 3,000 rushing yards.
However, Monken inherits a team with significant hurdles. The Browns have struggled on the field, posting a 5-12 record this season and 8-26 over the past two years, despite boasting a strong defense led by star player Myles Garrett. This marks the seventh coaching hire by owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam since 2012, with previous coaches compiling a dismal 73-139-1 regular-season record, the second-worst in the NFL during that span.
Key Priorities for the New Head Coach
One of Monken's immediate tasks will be to retain defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, who has built one of the league's top defenses, including leading the NFL in total defense in 2023. Schwartz is under contract for another season, but his future is uncertain after being overlooked for the head coach position.
More critically, Monken must address the quarterback situation and develop a sustainable offense. Under former coach Kevin Stefanski, the Browns started a league-high 13 different quarterbacks, with the trade for Deshaun Watson proving particularly problematic. Watson has played only 19 games for Cleveland, with a 9-10 record and underwhelming stats, and missed this season due to injury. Owner Jimmy Haslam has acknowledged the trade as a "big swing and miss" that the team must recover from.
Looking Forward to the Draft and Beyond
The Browns have opportunities to rebuild, holding the sixth and 24th overall picks in the upcoming NFL draft, along with 10 total selections. Haslam emphasized the importance of the next 120 days for the organization, focusing on efficient free agency and drafting quality players. This season, Cleveland joined rare company as one of only two teams in the Super Bowl era to have rookies lead in passing, rushing, and receiving yards, highlighting both youth potential and ongoing challenges.
As Todd Monken takes the helm, he will work with standout defender Myles Garrett, but the broader mission is to steer the Browns toward winning seasons and stability, overcoming a legacy of dysfunction and underperformance.
