In a stunning turn in the NFL coaching carousel, the Cleveland Browns have hired Todd Monken as their 19th full-time head coach. The former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator, who turns 60 on February 5, returns to Cleveland after a previous stint as the team’s OC in 2019. This move ends a chaotic, month-long search following the firing of Kevin Stefanski and signals a bold pivot toward an offense-first identity in a franchise desperate for consistency.
Why Monken? The Browns Bet Big on Proven Play-Calling Expertise
Monken’s resume speaks volumes: He orchestrated explosive offenses at Georgia (two national championships as OC), helped Lamar Jackson and the Ravens dominate with high-powered attacks from 2023-2025, and even briefly led Southern Miss as head coach (2013-2015). Browns owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam praised his “innovative offensive mindset,” leadership, and ability to build trust while demanding accountability.
- Key Strengths: Elite play design, quarterback development, and explosive schemes that ranked among the NFL’s best in recent years.
- Familiarity Factor: Monken knows Cleveland’s building from his 2019 tenure, though that ended amid turmoil under Freddie Kitchens.
The hire comes after several high-profile candidates withdrew or weren’t pursued aggressively—names like Mike McDaniel (who stayed put), Jesse Minter (now with Baltimore), and up-and-comers like Grant Udinski and Nate Scheelhaase. Monken reportedly beat out internal favorite Jim Schwartz (whose future as DC remains uncertain amid reported drama exposing team dysfunction).
The Risks: Age, History, and a Tough AFC North
At nearly 60 for his first NFL head coaching gig, Monken joins rare company—only a handful of non-interim coaches have started that old. Critics call it a “confusing” or “underwhelming” choice in a league trending younger and more dynamic. His 2019 Browns stint had rocky moments, including reported problematic comments at the end.
Yet supporters see echoes of successful late-bloomers like Andy Reid and Bill Belichick. If Monken brings in trusted allies—like former Ravens OL coach George Warhop (already confirmed to join)—and unlocks the offense around talents like Deshaun Watson (or a potential new QB), this could spark a Browns renaissance.
Fan & Analyst Reactions: Mixed but Intrigued
Social media exploded with Browns fans split between optimism (“Finally offense!”) and skepticism (“Another retread?”). Analysts note the AFC North arms race—new coaches in Pittsburgh (Mike McCarthy) and Baltimore—making Monken’s arrival timely but high-pressure.
This hire screams change: From defense-heavy roots to Monken’s air-it-out philosophy. Will it fix Cleveland’s long-standing offensive woes? Or add to the Browns’ infamous coaching turnover?
One thing’s clear: Todd Monken is back in Cleveland with a massive opportunity—and the eyes of the NFL watching every play.
