In a bold — and somewhat surprising — move, the Cleveland Browns have hired Todd Monken as their next head coach, entrusting him with the task of revitalizing an offense that has struggled for consistency and creativity in recent years.
A New Era in Cleveland
Monken, 59, will become the 19th head coach in Browns franchise history, marking his first NFL head-coaching opportunity after a long and varied career in both college and professional football.
Most recently, he served as offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens, where his offense helped Lamar Jackson capture his second NFL MVP award and produced top-tier offensive numbers, including a league-leading offense in 2024.
Previously, Monken had a one-season stint as the Browns’ offensive coordinator in 2019, giving him familiarity with the organization.
He also held coordinator roles with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the University of Georgia, where his Bulldogs offenses won two national championships.
Why Monken? A Franchise in Need of Offensive Identity
The Browns enter 2026 coming off a 5-12 season in 2025, finishing at the bottom of the AFC North and struggling to score — ranking last in scoring offense over the past two seasons at just 15.8 points per game.
General Manager Andrew Berry emphasized that significant investment is coming on offense, and that the new head coach would have a voice not only in play-calling and scheme but also in determining the team’s quarterback direction.
Cleveland’s quarterback room presents both opportunity and uncertainty.
Deshaun Watson — who missed all of 2025 rehabbing from a torn Achilles — is expected to return for 2026.
He’ll compete with Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders, both of whom saw action as rookies last season.
Offensive Philosophy and Expectations
Monken arrives with a reputation as an innovative offensive mind. During his Ravens tenure, his units ranked among the league’s best in red-zone efficiency, passer rating, and rushing output — numbers that suggest a balanced and adaptable attack.
His background includes:
NFL offensive coordinator roles with the Ravens, Browns, and Buccaneers.
Collegiate success at Georgia, where he helped craft a dynamic offense that powered consecutive national titles.
Head-coaching experience at Southern Miss, providing a deeper understanding of leadership and program building.
The hope among Browns leadership and fans is that Monken can bring creativity, energy, and a modern offensive framework to a squad that has long struggled to sustain success through the air and on the ground.
Defense and Staff Continuity
One of Monken’s early challenges will be staffing decisions.
The Browns’ defense, led by long-time defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, has been one of the best in the league over the past few seasons, leading in yards allowed and boasting a franchise star in Myles Garrett.
It remains unclear whether Schwartz will be retained under Monken, though owner Jimmy Haslam has expressed interest in keeping the defensive architect in place.
Draft Capital and Rebuilding Tools
Cleveland enters the offseason with 10 total draft picks, including two first-round selections.
This arsenal of draft capital gives Monken and GM Berry plenty of resources to reshape the roster and tailor it to a more dynamic offensive vision.
Fan and League Reaction
Reactions to the hire have been mixed. Some analysts and rival fans view the choice as unconventional, arguing that Monken — while experienced — was a less obvious candidate compared with others in the league.
But many Browns supporters are hopeful that Monken’s offensive pedigree and familiarity with the AFC North will inject the creativity and leadership needed to lift a franchise starved for a true offensive identity.
The Road Ahead
As the Browns prepare for free agency, coaching staff reshaping, and the 2026 NFL Draft, Todd Monken steps into a franchise hungry for change.
Whether he can translate his offensive successes into sustained wins.
