Sports | Cleveland Browns Name Todd Monken as New Head Coach on 5-Year Deal
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Quick summary
The Cleveland Browns have hired former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken as their new head coach on a five-year contract. Monken replaces Kevin Stefanski, who was fired after a 5-12 season, and inherits a strong defense led by Myles Garrett. He faces the challenge of revitalizing an offense that ranked last in scoring over the past two seasons.
Cleveland Browns Hire Todd Monken as Head Coach
The Cleveland Browns announced the hiring of Todd Monken, previously the offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens, as their new head coach on Wednesday. The deal is reportedly for five years, marking Monken's first head coaching role in the NFL. Monken, who turns 60 on February 5, steps in after the Browns parted ways with Kevin Stefanski on January 5 following six seasons at the helm.
Background and Previous Tenure
Monken returns to Cleveland for a second stint, having served as the team's offensive coordinator in 2019 under head coach Freddie Kitchens. That season was tumultuous, with reports of internal friction as Monken publicly described the offensive situation as a "total mess" ahead of games. Despite those challenges, his experience includes successful offensive coordinator roles with the Ravens from 2023 to 2025, where Baltimore ranked among the league's top scoring offenses in prior years, even amid injuries in 2025.
Earlier in his NFL career, Monken worked as wide receivers coach for the Jacksonville Jaguars from 2007 to 2010. His college achievements include coordinating the Georgia Bulldogs' offense.
Team Context and Challenges Ahead
The Browns finished the most recent season with a 5-12 record, posting an 8-26 mark since their last playoff appearance in 2023. Monken inherits a roster with a stout defense, anchored by stars like Myles Garrett, which allowed the fewest yards per game in the league. However, the offense ranked last in scoring at 15.8 points per game over the previous two seasons.
- Key departures: Offensive coordinator Tommy Rees joined the Atlanta Falcons; wide receivers coach Chad O'Shea moved to the Kansas City Chiefs.
- Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz has expressed a desire to leave amid reported fallout from the hire.
- Quarterback situation: Deshaun Watson, sidelined in 2025 due to a torn Achilles from 2024, is expected back in 2026 alongside rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders.
Owner and GM Statements
Browns owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam praised Monken as an "outstanding leader" with a clear vision, emphasizing his commitment to player development, communication, trust, accountability, and preparation. General manager Andrew Berry, who led the search, has indicated significant offseason investment in the offense, with the new head coach involved in quarterback decisions.
AFC North Coaching Landscape
Monken's hire completes the AFC North coaching carousel for 2026, making him the third new head coach in the division this offseason. Pittsburgh Steelers welcomed Mike McCarthy, Baltimore Ravens promoted Jesse Minter, while Zac Taylor remains with the Cincinnati Bengals.