NFL insider connects the Cleveland Browns to potential Jim Schwartz replacement candidate from another AFC team with an elite defense
Cleveland Browns are in search of a new defensive coordinator and names are starting to arise to replace Jim Schwartz.
Todd Monken and the Cleveland Browns have a big decision on their hands following the resignation of defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz.
The Browns had hoped to keep Schwartz on the coaching staff despite passing over him for the head coaching job for Monken. A hope was all it was, as the Browns received a resignation letter from Schwartz on Thursday.
A search for a new defensive coordinator is on in Cleveland.
Cleveland Browns connected to Houston Texans assistant coach
Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer has floated Houston Texans defensive pass game coordinator Cory Undlin as a name to watch for the Browns’ open defensive coordinator job. Undlin and Monken worked together with the Jacksonville Jaguars for two seasons beginning in 2009.
Undlin has been in the current role with the Texans under DeMeco Ryans since 2023 and has prior defensive coordinator experience from 2020 with the Detroit Lions. Lundlin is a 54-year-old Minnesota native who got his start in the NFL back in 2004 as a defensive coaching assistant with the New England Patriots.
In 2007, Undlin was the assistant special teams coach for the Browns for one season before he coached defensive backs in Cleveland. Undlin has additional experience with the Denver Broncos, Philadelphia Eagles, and San Francisco 49ers. Undlin has won two Super Bowls as an assistant in the NFL.
Todd Monken has a decision on his hands with the defensive coordinator role
The Browns could look to go to the outside and bring in someone like Undlin who Monken has some familiarity. Another option is for the Browns to stay in-house and promote someone currently on the defensive staff. Safeties coach Ephrahim Banda would be the most likely move there followed by linebackers coach Jason Tarver.
Monken said during his introductory press conference that he expected the system to stay the same whether or not Schwartz is around. Making that happen with a promotion from within would be the most ideal move.
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