The only good thing about the Cleveland Browns in their past few seasons has also left them: Jim Schwartz.

The man who revolutionized the Browns' defense has left them after reportedly not being happy with being overlooked for the head coach promotion. The franchise has released its official statement:

"Yesterday, Jim Schwartz submitted his letter of resignation as defensive coordinator of the Cleveland Browns. We'd like to thank Jim for his contributions to our organization over the last three seasons. Our search for a new defensive coordinator will begin immediately."

This is a big loss for the Browns since Schwartz is the one who made the Browns' defense as dominant as it is. When he came to the team in 2023, they led the NFL in total defense (fewest yards allowed per game) and passing defense, giving up only 270.2 yards/game, their lowest since 2014.

In 2025, the Browns recorded 53 total sacks, the most in franchise history with Jim Schwartz as the DC. DE Myles Garrett broke the NFL single-season sack record with 23 sacks in that same season. The team finished 4th in total defense, allowing just 283.6 yards/game. Why did he leave?

According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, "After the Browns informed DC Jim Schwartz this morning they were passing him over to hire Todd Monken as head coach, Schwartz was visibly upset, said goodbyes in the building and told other coaches he’s not coming back, sources tell The Insiders..."

So what now for the Browns?

Who Would Replace Jim Schwartz at the Browns?

Losing Schwartz is definitely a big loss for the Cleveland Browns, but they have to look for a new one. A few names have come forward, including linebackers coach Jason Tarver, as per SI Insider Albert Breer.

“If Cleveland loses (Schwartz), linebackers coach Jason Tarver would certainly be a consideration, as a guy who has an existing relationship with Monken. If the Browns go outside the building, another Houston assistant—pass-game coordinator Cory Undlin—would be a name to watch. He and Monken were together in Jacksonville in 2009 and ’10.”

Tarver has been part of the Browns’ staff since 2020 and is widely respected inside the organization. He’s also no stranger to running a defense, having served as the Raiders’ defensive coordinator from 2012–14, and later holding the same role at the college level with Vanderbilt from 2018-19.

Do you think he is a good replacement? If not him, who?

To stay updated on who steps up to take the reins, follow Cleveland Browns Community

Written by

Reyansh Dubey

Edited by

Joyita Das