In a surprise twist during the 2026 NFL coaching carousel, Jim Schwartz, the veteran defensive coordinator of the Cleveland Browns, has reportedly informed the organization that he does not plan to return after being passed over for the head coach position — a job that ultimately went to Todd Monken.
Why Jim Schwartz Is Leaving the Browns
After multiple interviews for the Browns’ vacant head coaching job, Schwartz was a finalist but was not selected, despite his reputation as one of the league’s top defensive minds. When the Browns chose Monken as head coach, reports indicate that Schwartz was “visibly upset” and told coaching staff he wouldn’t be back in Cleveland for the upcoming season.
While the team technically still holds him under contract for 2026 — meaning he could be kept on — sources suggest he’s intent on finding a new opportunity rather than remaining as defensive coordinator.
Jim Schwartz’s Career and Contracts
Schwartz, born in 1966 in Maryland, has a long NFL coaching résumé that includes:
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Defensive Coordinator stops with the Titans, Bills, Eagles, and Browns.
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Head coach of the Detroit Lions from 2009 to 2013.
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AP NFL Assistant Coach of the Year (2023).
Full details on his current salary with the Browns aren’t publicly disclosed — a common situation with NFL coordinator contracts — but typical NFL defensive coordinator pay ranges often fall in the multi-million-dollar bracket annually, with elite coordinators earning around $4M or more depending on experience and team budget.
Schwartz was on a contract that reportedly paid him competitive coordinator money in Cleveland, though not in the same range as head coaches. Estimates from fan analyses suggested prior coordinator deals in the NFL in the low millions per year.
Defense Rankings Under Schwartz
Since joining the Browns in 2023, Schwartz quickly transformed Cleveland’s defense into one of the NFL’s best:
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2023 Season: Browns defense led the entire NFL in total defense — allowing the fewest yards per game — a rare achievement for the franchise.
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2025 Season: Cleveland’s defense ranked fourth overall in total defense, even with a struggling overall team record.
Under Schwartz’s leadership, Browns defenders like Myles Garrett thrived — Garrett set the NFL single-season sack record with 23 — earning defensive accolades while showcasing Schwartz’s ability to maximize talent.
Schwartz’s Defensive Legacy
Jim Schwartz is widely respected around the league for building sound, disciplined defenses that consistently rank at or near the top in key statistical categories like yards allowed, opponent scoring efficiency, and pass rush productivity.
His impact on the Browns’ defensive identity has been profound, particularly against the pass and in limiting big plays. Many analysts credit him with helping elevate Cleveland’s unit into the upper tier of NFL defenses during his tenure.
What Comes Next?
With Schwartz’s future in Cleveland now uncertain, several teams could view him as a top candidate for vacant defensive coordinator or even head coaching roles — especially given his blend of veteran leadership and defensive expertise.
The Browns, for their part, must now reckon with not only a new head coach in Todd Monken but potentially the loss of the coach who helped build one of the best defenses in franchise history.
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