Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz’s swift resignation could open up doors for the Cleveland Browns as they look to get an extra draft pick in the upcoming season.

According to Tony Grossi of ESPN Cleveland, the Browns could be looking to get an extra draft pick. “A source notified me that the Browns retained his rights. That means they are trying to extract a draft pick”, he said. Grossi said the Browns can expect to swing an extra fourth-round pick if they negotiate well. 

The Browns still hold the rights over Jim Schwartz’s contract, meaning he cannot coach in the NFL for the next two seasons. Schwartz was expected to be promoted to Head Coach this year, but lost out to Todd Monken, who ultimately got the job.

This is the second time Schwartz has been denied the top job. He lost out on the Head Coach role to Kevin Stefanski in 2020. Losing out for a second time could have led to frustrations, which ultimately led to his resignation this Friday.

Schwartz oversaw a fantastic defensive record, which saw the Browns concede the fewest yards in the NFL since 2023. Under him, Myles Garrett has also won Defensive Player of the Year twice, winning his second award this past Thursday. "I love Jim, and I love playing for him," Garrett had said.

Trade Jim Schwartz with the Los Angeles Raiders?

Assistant coaches are traditionally not eligible for trade, as this privilege is reserved for the head coaches. Under normal circumstances, the Cleveland Browns cannot ask another team for a draft pick. 

However, it is possible that they can work out an unofficial deal with another team. The Los Angeles Raiders, for instance, are on the lookout for a new defensive coordinator, having yet to fill that position. With Klint Kubiak set to join them as the head coach from the Seahawks, the Raiders could look to swoop in on Schwartz. 

“As for Jim Schwartz, if he’s not back in Cleveland, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Klint Kubiak make a run at landing him, once he coaches his last game as Seahawks OC on Sunday,” according to SI.com's Albert Breer.

This could help the Browns secure a draft pick in the fourth or fifth round. Only time will tell, however, if letting go of their defensive coordinator was a wise move.

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Written by

Shyam Hari

Edited by

Joyita Das