Todd Monken is already facing pressure as the new head coach of the Cleveland Browns. Despite not having coached a single game, some believe his job could be at risk if the upcoming season doesn’t meet expectations.
Monken Steps Into Big Shoes
Monken was hired in January to replace Kevin Stefanski, who was sacked after six seasons. Stefanski led the Browns to the playoffs twice and has two Coach of the Year awards. Monken faces the challenge of filling Stefanski’s shoes, with high expectations, particularly for the offense.
According to Fox Sports NFL reporter Henry McKenna, a disappointing first season could lead to the dismissal of both Monken and general manager Andrew Berry. McKenna noted that the Browns struggled to attract top candidates in the 2026 hiring cycle, mainly because of the team’s salary cap issues and quarterback issues.
Tough Competition for the Job
The Browns conducted an extensive search for a new coach. However, several top candidates withdrew or declined interviews. The final decision came down to Monken and former defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz. Monken, considered a dark-horse candidate, was ultimately chosen. Before the Browns, it had been widely expected he would follow John Harbaugh to New York as the Giants’ offensive coordinator.
Reviving the Browns’ Offense
Monken arrives in Cleveland after three seasons as Baltimore’s offensive coordinator, where he helped Lamar Jackson to his second NFL MVP in 2023. He previously won back-to-back national championships at Georgia and served as Cleveland’s offensive coordinator under Freddie Kitchens in 2019.
Monken is tasked with rebuilding the Browns’ offense. The team has struggled, going 8-26 over the past two seasons, with the offense being a central issue. Last season, Cleveland averaged just 16.4 points and 281.8 total yards per game.
Quarterback Conundrum
The quarterback situation presents a significant challenge for Monken. Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel, and rookie Tayen Green are all on the roster. Monken has not yet named a starter, stating that it is an open competition. “I’m not there yet, so I can’t say (there’s a leader),” Monken said. “We’ve been on the field three days.”
Offensive Line Overhaul
The new quarterback will have an improved offensive line. Cleveland acquired Elgton Jenkins, Tytus Howard, and Zion Johnson. The Browns also added draft picks Spencer Fano, Austin Barber, and centre Parker Brailsford.
The Browns have also bolstered their receiving corps, adding KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston to play alongside Jerry Jeudy.
If the Browns have a strong, young team with a high draft pick in a QB-rich 2027 draft, the Browns could hire a big-name coach or hot coordinator prospect.