Todd Monken Praises Jim Schwartz’s Skill, Remains Silent on His Status

The Cleveland Browns are evaluating their coaching staff, particularly regarding Jim Schwartz’s position as defensive coordinator. Team owner Jimmy Haslam previously expressed his desire to retain Schwartz after the dismissal of former head coach Kevin Stefanski last month. However, with Todd Monken now taking the lead as head coach, the future of Schwartz remains uncertain.

Todd Monken Highlights Jim Schwartz’s Talent

During a recent press conference, Monken, Haslam, and General Manager Andrew Berry addressed questions about Schwartz’s potential return. Monken emphasized Schwartz’s coaching abilities, stating, “First of all, I think Jim is an outstanding defensive coordinator.” He tactfully refrained from making specific comments regarding Schwartz’s status, suggesting that discussions about the coaching staff would occur at a later date.

The Current Defensive Strategy

Regardless of Schwartz’s fate, Monken is committed to maintaining the current defensive system in place. He described facing the Browns’ defense over the past three years as challenging, valuing the effectiveness of the existing scheme and the players executing it. “It’s been a bitch — I apologize — to go against this defense six times,” Monken remarked, illustrating the prowess of the team’s defensive lineup.

• Monken plans to keep the same defensive system in place.
• He expressed confidence in the defensive players’ abilities.
• The team’s focus remains on building from their existing strengths.

Monken stated, “I can’t see any other way” than to continue with the current defensive approach. He believes that it empowers players to take more offensive initiative on the field, which has been a significant factor in his decision to join the Browns. His respect for Schwartz is evident, but Monken clarified, “I didn’t take this job because of Jim Schwartz.” Instead, he is focused on the talented players within the roster.

Highlighting key defensive players, Monken noted that he structured his preparation around them and not just the defensive coordinator. “I was worried about throwing to the right against Denzel Ward or Tyson Campbell to the left,” he explained. His commitment to the players and their playstyle marks a new chapter for the Cleveland Browns under his leadership.