KEY POINT
- Monken becomes the 19th head coach in Browns history and inherits a 5‑12 roster from 2025.
- He has NFL and college coaching experience, including stops with the Ravens, Georgia, and Southern Mississippi.
- Cleveland plans to give Monken a leading role in offensive strategy and draft decisions.
CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Browns have hired Todd Monken as their new head coach, sources said Wednesday, tasking the former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator with turning around a franchise that finished last in the AFC North for two consecutive seasons.
Monken, 59, spent the past three seasons with the Ravens, helping quarterback Lamar Jackson earn his second NFL MVP award in 2023 while overseeing one of the league’s most efficient offenses.
He also served as Cleveland’s offensive coordinator in 2019, when running back Nick Chubb and quarterback Baker Mayfield posted productive campaigns.
The Browns fired Kevin Stefanski earlier this month following consecutive disappointing seasons. Monken emerged as the top candidate after interviews with other finalists, including defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz and Rams pass game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase.
“Monken knows the AFC North and has a proven offensive system,” said Dr. James Holloway, Ohio State University sports management professor.
Mark Reynolds, Pro Football Strategy Institute analyst, added, “Success will depend on his ability to integrate his vision across the roster and staff.”
GM Andrew Berry said Monken will influence key personnel decisions. Fan Maria Lopez said, “Monken gives hope, but we need results on the field.”
Monken will immediately assess quarterbacks, restructure the offense, and help shape the team’s draft strategy, while the decision on retaining defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz remains pending.